What I Hope My Daughter Learns

To watch an osprey survey
the Atlantic and then dive
sixty feet before pulling out
a fish on its first attempt
and not take a selfie afterward.
Quickly picking up a pill
from the floor before the dog
ingests it because he has learned
that everything that comes
from your hand is joy.
Coming back home with a cut
over your knee after trying
something new, trying to staunch
the bleeding, cleaning the wound,
recognizing you need more help
and getting a few stitches.
Years later, looking at the scar
and smiling long after I am gone.

Joseph Geskey is an Internal Medicine Physician who provides primary healthcare in an underserved area of Columbus, Ohio. Broken Tribe Press will publish his second book of poetry, Vigil, in 2026. His first book, Alms for the Ravens, appeared in 2024 from Main Street Rag Publishing Company. His work has appeared in Tar River Poetry, Poetry East, Verse Daily, Roanoke Review, JAMA, and many others. Please visit josephgeskey.com for further information.

Published July 15 2025