The day I finished chemotherapy
they surrounded me with a group hug.
I said, "You have been kind to me.
I will miss you."
They said, "It is good to miss us.
Remember us,
but don't come back."

The day I finished radiation
they cheered and gave me
their autographed certificate.
I said, "You have been gentle and kind.
I will miss you."
They said, "It is good to miss us.
Remember us,
but don't return."

Today I recover.
I remember them.
I sigh.  And I smile.
But I don't come back.