Miracles of Medicine

Just because these days cataracts surgery is considered routine doesn't make it any less miraculous. This morning the lens of my right eye was removed and a corrective clear lens was implanted in its place. I am told and assured that in a few weeks when the left eye is surgically corrected I will have nearly perfect vision without glasses or contact lenses. I provided for my surgeon, Dr. McGarey, a copy of the Physician's Prayer attributed to Maimonides.

Contemporary adaptation for use by doctors before

serious surgery

Holy One, Source of all healing, You have chosen me

to watch over the life and health of my patients. I am

now about to perform surgery, entering the sacred

temple of the body. May You guide me to use my skill,

learning, experience, and intuition to achieve the best

possible outcome. Illumine my mind so that I

recognize what presents itself and comprehend what may

be absent or hidden. May I, with the support of my

capable team, stay focused and attentive during the

entire procedure in order to preserve the life and health

of my patient.

Grant that my patient have confidence in me and my art

and follow my directions and my counsel. I pray for a

healing of body and spirit for my patient. I now begin

the holy task entrusted to me. –Amen.

For all those other seemingly routine medical miracles like knee surgery, hip replacement, rotator cuff repair, cancer treatments, and other healing modalities available to us through the knowledge and expertise of physicians we should be extremely grateful. Perhaps you would like to offer this pre-surgery prayer to a doctor you know who would appreciate the guidance and deepened kavannah "intention" provided.

Sending blessings for healing to all my friends and readers.

Rabbi Alicia