Seeing the Pain in Someone Else’s Eyes

Dec17

They look so serene sitting straight, hands slightly clenched, gently laying in their lap.

The cadence of their voice is slow, even, steady, and clear.

The conversation flows.

But when you look into their eyes
the pain of hidden burdens echoes from the windows
of their soul.

You lock in, trying to console the dark, deep pain
that oozes quietly, insidiously trying to erode
their dreams of tomorrow.

Giving comfort with a nod, and a gentle smile,
mirroring a silent acceptance of who they are.

Reassuring them that they are seen
and letting them know that as time passes
it will be okay, that they are okay.

Please don’t turn away; look deep
see and respectfully acknowledge
the pain in someone else’s eyes.

Image source: Pixabay

Thank you for reading my memoir, Untangled, A Story of Resilience, Courage, and Triumph

25 thoughts on “Seeing the Pain in Someone Else’s Eyes”

  11. ‘Reassuring them that they are seen’…this is such an important gesture that so many fail to offer to those who are obviously suffering. It pains me to see others ignored. Everyone deserves to be acknowledged, even if their situation makes us uncomfortable. Thank you for a lovely, powerful poem.

    Liked by 4 people

  24. So hard to do. My empathy is overwhelming most… No way to make the hurt go away, except be there for someone. Your mind screaming at you, “It’s not enough… DO SOMETHING”.

    I loved your poem… It’s beautiful and very caring.

    Liked by 2 people

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