Just Listen Poem by Maya Reid

I need to have a talk with you
There are some things I need to get off my chest
So sit down and please just listen
Although listening isn’t what you do best

Please don’t interrupt with protests
Just listen to my words; don’t try to explain
Don’t categorize my feelings
Just take note of the things that have caused my pain

Search for all the deeper meanings
Remember that I chose these words carefully
And when I tell you how I feel
Don’t tell me these feelings aren’t how they should be

When I tell you of a problem
Don’t solve it; I need to do that for myself
And when I ask your opinion
I don’t want an answer from off of a shelf

I have asked that you just listen
Not that you give advice or try to fix it
So please listen and just hear me
Genuinely listen; don’t be counterfeit

When I have finished, you may talk
By then you’ve earned a chance to speak your mind too
Simply wait a moment for your turn
Don’t talk or do; then I’ll do the same for you.