Listen Poem by Fela Payson

For once in your life, listen
Listen to me when I tell you I didn't do it
Listen to me when I tell you I did do it
Hear me out when I say something
Pay attention when I whisper
If I shout listen to why
Don't just usher me into silence
If I scream check my body for injuries
If I cry listen to my sobs and comfort me
If you've ever listened, listen now
Listen to my silent cries and my coveted screams
My yells
And my 'why? 's
Listen when I tell you I'm hurt
Listen when I say I need help
Hear my voice and don't turn a deaf ear
Hear my whimpers and don't use my vulnerability against me
Listen.
For the sake of all the gods in the sky
Listen.
Put your ear to the wall when I scream at the roof
Open your ears when you hear me cry
Listen to me.
Why won't you?
Listen.