Sometimes, All We Can Do is Listen

Life can be complex
Even more so when two lives merge
Caring for one’s self is a burden in itself
But supporting another
Comes with challenges
That nothing else can really prepare us for

We try our best
In all of our endeavors
Acting
In our own way
With good intentions
Each decision
Made upon a foundation
Of prior knowledge and experience

Even still
There will be times
When we feel like we are inadequate
Ill-prepared
For the difficulties that arise
Disappointed
Not on the shortcomings of those we love
But in our inability to compensate and adjust

I have so often felt
Utterly useless and powerless
As those I love
Struggle without relief
And I am entirely unable
To be of any help
To be anything more
Than a voice
Misunderstood and mistaken in my efforts

Sometimes
All we can do is listen
Demonstrating and reinforcing
Our love and support
Placing hope where it belongs
In the strength that lies within them
Believing that they can and will access it
And use it
To overcome their difficulties
Placing hope in ourselves
In our patience and our love
Believing that we can overcome our own insecurities
And stand beside them
Waiting without judgement or condemnation
Ready and willing
When needed
To be a friend
To be a partner
To be an ally
In the never-ending battle we wage
Against ourselves