Carolyn Gregory: Listening

When we are listened to
by a kind person,
the fears about earthquakes
and guns disappear
in the cadence of her voice,
finding out what you need
and whom to call
in measured words,
perhaps with a little humor added.

These are hard times for many
but they do not mark the end
for you who have been threatened
by death more than once.
Compassion unfolds her bright blue
wings and shelters us.