L Milton Hankins Poet Free verse

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

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Caren Krutsinger July 30, 2022 at 9:28 AM There is nothing like a good listener, counselor or not, even better if they do not attempt to counsel. L Milton Hankins July 30, 2022 at 10:42 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.

Jenna Logan July 24, 2022 at 2:00 AM You've experienced the situation from both chairs, so you're qualified to write about this important subject, and quite nicely, Milt. L Milton Hankins July 24, 2022 at 5:12 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.

Michael Tor July 23, 2022 at 3:34 PM Love the ending on this one Milton. To listen is to care. Excellent theme. Be blessed my friend... Michael Tor July 23, 2022 at 4:24 PM Very impressive... L Milton Hankins July 23, 2022 at 4:09 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!