we all need it
from time to time

to vent,
to give expression

to grief and loneliness,
frustration, rejection, fear

how to be a good friend,
when the vulnerable,

sometimes messy,
unburdening occurs?

not rushing to fix,
nor even believing

that fixing needs to be
done by me

bearing witness instead,
fully present, patiently,

listening
without judging

trusting that listening itself
is beneficial

trusting that the speaker
while unburdening

has a direct path
to insight
to grace