To be a scientist
is to be different.

To be compelled by curiosity,
toask questions just to find out
whether the truth is known...
is in itself a curiosity...
perhaps a pathology.

To work long non-billlable hours
in the quest for knowledge
makes one eccentric, at best.

The public is bemused but tolerant.
Scientists seem worthy of respect and support...
but how much?

What do academic scientists do?
"Teach"... a safe and acceptable answer.
"Run a lab"... sounds vaguely useful.
"Sponsored research"...has a impressive ring to it.
"Profess"... archaic and anarchistic.
"Serve mankind"...pompous and self-serving.
"Discover"...mystical and unjustifiable.
Yet, all of the above are true.

The public asks...
Do scientists want to change the world?...
If not, what are they trying to do?
If so, why didn't they ask us first?

I ponder these things,
as I look at my Einstein nutcracker...
colorfully painted, wild-haired,
with abacus and formula in hand.
Is this a tribute to a famous scientist, or an insult?
Should I aspire to be so honored?
Should I aspire only for truth?

Fortunately,
I prefer matching my wits with nature
to more philosophical meanderings.
The questions will continue, as they should.
I leave Einstein on my shelf as a reminder...
a reality check.

Kay Meier
Department of Pharmacology