How do I need thee, let me count the ways.
From the tibia, femur and patella
my legs can flex and bend and extend.
Whether bony, dimpled, or knock-kneed,
I need thee freely to stand, run, leap, creep.
I need thee purely to carry my weight
with ease. I kneel humbly to you as friend,
ice you when sore, knead you when you freeze.
After surgery, I’ll help you mend.
With lost years, I need thy constant support.
I need thee at the mountains and the shore.
I need thee as a poem needs metaphor
As Frost and Browning have sung your praise,
I will forever need you for all my days.
