I listen between the words
you speak.
As you mouth the story,
a flutter of fear
a glimmer of gladness
a shiver of sorrow
all hover like hummingbirds in the air.
This is really the truth of your life right now, isn’t it?
Ever-changing, illusive, elusive.
Mine too.
I wrote this after thinking about how often we utter words to each other that have little to do with what we’re experiencing at a deeper level — in our guts, our hearts, our souls.
As Gibran observed: The reality of the other person lies not in what he reveals to you, but what he cannot reveal to you. Therefore, if you would understand him, listen not to what he says, but rather to what he does not say.
To do this, we have to slow right down, and become very curious about the quick small signals that flash on and off in conversation — signals we so easily miss when we are caught up with our own image and persona. Recognizing that our stories are just that — stories — can break down barriers and reveal what is common to us all.
Sherrygaley.com 
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I read this a few days ago but had to let it sink in…your words are so well written and heartfelt…the difficult part is that they are true…it is not easy being vulnerable so we just speak our safe words to those that we don’t quite understand yet…the deep words that make up the whole of us…are buried and we only let a few out at a time…to those we trust…
Your poetry is beautiful…
Beautifully written, Sherry and how very true.
I didn’t realize how talented you were with words too. Amazing…
obviously something very meaningful for you. I love how you chose to reveal how you are listening.
Beautiful words, Sherry, and a truly though provoking post.
Thank you, my friend. xo.
Ooooooo…… In our world today listening has become a lost art altogether., let alone this type. Very good writing.
Very beautiful, Sherry. It is through telling our stories and being heard by someone who really cares that we are able to heal. It truly is a miracle.
Sherry, I love this poem. And it is SO true!
Sherry, these new poems are wonderful! Spare words and images that capture the heart’s truth. Thank you! Mary Lou
This resonates so much with me. This is truth. It is hard, if not impossible, to really speak our true feelings as feelings cannot always be put into words. It is much easier to tell our stories, however with careful listening we can understand and open ourselves to greater awareness of others and ourselves.