The River Listens

Sitting at the river,
I do not tell my worries to go away.
No need to force the quiet mind.
It is the kind mind that is needed most.

Anger is welcome.
Grief is welcome.
Fear, anxiety, loneliness —
all are accepted, sitting beside me.

This place is a refuge for all.
I have gotten to know these companions.
They are good friends now.
They always carry some wisdom,
some insight for me.

I listen.
I comfort them with my silence,
a good, long pause.

Let them know they are heard.
Let them know they belong.
Let them know they are loved.

Then I respond.
I have something to say.
When we are together like this,
they are good listeners too.

And then —
the one I am speaking to
transforms:
a young woman,
and my heart has compassion for her.

The river has been listening all along,
to me,
to my companions.
Now the river speaks.

And we all listen.
And now we all understand.