Listen

It seems like there are so many people losing loved ones or maybe since I have lost the love of my life I seem to notice it more now. When you lose someone several things can happen...people can become awkward because they don't know what to say, people say too much without thinking how tactless they are or people you know and love ignore you because they are caught up in their own grief. These things happen because (in my opinion) people avoid talking about grief and death because they think it is taboo...if they acknowledge it it may happen to them. I came across this great poem while at my support group and it is so perfect that I want to share it with the world, so I hope you enjoy it!!

Listen

By: Fran Morgan

If I am pained and come to  you,

Before you speak, consider twice.

"Shoulds" and platitudes won't do

I want your ear, not your advice.

Just listen, friend, and try to hear

Beyond my words...(the stuff I hide)

The outward rage is Oh! so mere

Compared to all the hurt inside.

If you would only say to me,

"That must have been so hard for you."

Instead of tossing off a line like,

"Here's the thing that I would do..."

Tune in to how I feel, my friend,

And hear beyond the words I say.

At times my words may not describe

Emotions deep, held down at  bay.

These deeper feelings kept within

Are journeys words can't take you to

But travel past the things you hear,

Don't say, "Don't let it bother you"

Please try to listen with your heart

Don't seize this chance to criticize,

Or preach to me, or even start

With trite cliches that sermonize.

If you've not walked my lonely road

(I hope you never will, my friend)

Don't try to be my therapist

Or say it's time my grief should end.

Listen! Listen! Be a friend!

Command compassion to your ears

To sift the weight of words I say

And hear unspoken tears and fears

Most times your silence suits me fine,

Or weep with me, that's soothing, too.

To heal this broken heart of mine,

Just LISTEN when I talk to you.

This poem got me thinking about the people that I need to listen a little better too. It really can apply to anytime in life. I remember being told growing up that our Father in Heaven gave us two ears and one mouth, so obviously the ears are doubly important. I hope this poem is something you can carry with you and put to good use.