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The Counselor

She sat there, arms in her lap, looking at me With undeniable interest, hearing my hurt, As I poured out my heavy heart at the loss Of my dear wife and trying to reason why She had to die, though I knew it had to be, For nearly an hour I let my emotions lead Unable to hold back most profound sorrow Then, in the last five minutes of my time She shared her thoughts, sensible and true, Helping me this awful time to see through. For years I had listened as a counselor, too, And I knew there is no greater gift to give Helping the hurting to have a reason to live Opening pathways for sincere communicating And not interrupting, hearing their story In the most difficult times of their lives. When I needed it most, it was there for me A listening ear, a warming smile, great relief.
Written July 23, 2022 Submitted to “Listening Is Loving” Poetry Contest Sponsored by Mystic Rose Rose

Copyright © | Year Posted 2022




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Date: 7/30/2022 9:28:00 AM
There is nothing like a good listener, counselor or not, even better if they do not attempt to counsel.
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Hankins Avatar
L Milton Hankins
Date: 7/30/2022 10:42:00 AM
That is true. Too often we are so caught up in what we are going to say that will be helpful, we are not helpful at all.
Date: 7/24/2022 2:00:00 AM
You've experienced the situation from both chairs, so you're qualified to write about this important subject, and quite nicely, Milt.
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L Milton Hankins
Date: 7/24/2022 5:12:00 AM
Thank you for your kind and affirmative comment. I'm off to the mountains, so I'm just writing a few brief comments. Soup Mail.
Date: 7/23/2022 3:34:00 PM
Love the ending on this one Milton. To listen is to care. Excellent theme. Be blessed my friend...
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Tor Avatar
Michael Tor
Date: 7/23/2022 4:24:00 PM
Very impressive...
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L Milton Hankins
Date: 7/23/2022 4:09:00 PM
As a pastor, I was known mostly for counseling and pretty much carried a full load of counseling all the time. It was what I loved most. Everyone needs a counselor...well, as least every once in a while. I am still going to counselors at my age. I would not give them up for anything...well, maybe for a good massage!

Book: Shattered Sighs