Empathy works so well because it does not require a solution. It requires only understanding. John Medina
Overheard
I heard it with my own ears.
A spoken word followed by
a child’s single tear
What did I comprehend?
I heard it once more.
A call to an old man to come now.
The voice sounded harsh.
I didn’t see the individual’s face.
What did I understand?
I can surmise.
Gather clues. Judge.
Or care. Interfere or
remain neutral.
Sometimes I need to trust
my gut. Any bluebird
will fly when approached.
Other times it is wiser
to negate first judgment.
If only my eyes and ears
gathered all with perfection.
Vision and sound lay open
as clear as blue skies.
When to act. When to stay outside,
a gift to comprehend.
terrypetersen 