Takeaway
Attentive listening is a healing practice in itself. When patients are truly heard, the space for understanding and healing widens.
Creative arts in medicine | June 10, 2026 | <1 min read
By John DeCarlo, MDiv, MA, Hofstra University
While it’s important to listen attentively to the heart and lungs, it’s equally important to listen to what patients are saying. The practice of listening closely is something sacred and significant to the art of medicine.
“The healing art of the stethoscope”
Listen, listen
Carefully
To the peaceful silence
Between each heart beat.
Allow yourself to be moved
By the rhythm of vital breath.
May each inhalation
Be a soulful repose in which healing
Flourishes.
This poem is inspired by and a tribute to all healthcare professionals who listen closely to their patients.
This piece expresses the views solely of the author. It does not necessarily represent the views of any organization, including Johns Hopkins Medicine.