The Placebo Effect

Ignore a cold, it’ll last a week.
Take some medicine, it’s gone
in seven days. Ask three doctors, get
four opinions. Take two asparagus
and cold-cock me in the morning. Try
a tincture of time, a pinch of benign
neglect. If to cut is to cure — then care less
and cut bait. Above all do no charm.
The rabbit lied. If you hear hoof beats,
it’s probably hearses, not zinnias.
Physician feel thyself. Sit down, place
your head between your knees, and
kiss your urine glass goodbye.


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