sometimes practicing empathy

is like walking through tall grass

gathering prickles as you pass,

needles and spikes that will stick  

into skin and fester unattended.

 

so, remember this. know that your

empathy is a gift and like any sort

of ability of consequence, you must

be in charge of it rather than

it demanding you.

 

so, walk though fields far and wide,

empathize with the hurts and pain

of those you meet, spread your balm

on wounds to heal. but remember to

tend to yourself after.

 

and carefully remove your garment,

observe any prickly burs there, gently and

mindfully pause to honor the lives you have

touched that day. then fold your apparel with

care, place over a chair,

 

and return to your own life

unfettered.

 

 

Heather Pound 2023

Photo by Oliver Pacas on Unsplash