Why do we feel the need
to treat the people we meet
as if their sole role
is to be our personal
soundboards, and nothing more?
As though they are just a surface
on which we may explore
those thoughts that gnaw away inside us
becoming oblivious
to other people’s torment,
Until we all but ignore them –
even when they’re standing there before us
pretending all is normal
when all they want is to find
someone who has the self-awareness
just to be be there
and take the time
to care…