TRY AND LISTEN
A dear friend is always a good listener
Not just one who’s a frequent visitor,
But hears things that may not be spoken,
Knows when someone’s heart is broken.

When you chat, look and listen as well,
Don’t plan your answers so you can tell
Words of wisdom and then appear wise,
Clear your mind and find a greater prize.

Listen well to know the true feeling of others,
Look in the eyes of your sisters and brothers,
See through each word to know how they feel,
Then it is love and not wisdom that will heal.

They may say they are fine when feeling down,
In pain and hurt and in self-pity too soon drown,
But a good listener will hear sadness somewhere,
Then stop and chat to tell them you love and care.

They may need just a hug or a shoulder to cry on,
Even if they don’t ask, a listening heart and kind one
Will be there for those who need a sweet friend,
Someone on whom they can trust and really depend.

You not only listen with both ears but your heart,
With your eyes, the whole body can do it’s part,
If through this life a good listener you can be
You are on the right path to heaven for eternity.

(Millicent) Ann Margetson January 12, 2004