When I know that you are hurting
I struggle with what to say
My words do not seem adequate
Sometimes it feels easier to slowly back away
But I know that isn’t helpful
It doesn’t comfort you the way you need
I reach down deep inside
I search the depths of me
I look for the most perfect words
Something to dry your tears
Not being able to comfort you
Is one of my biggest fears
And then I finally realized
It isn’t words you need
It is the promise that I will walk alongside you
And that is what you will get from me
I won’t tell you how to feel
Or suggest a different way
Instead, I will be there to listen
To every word you say
I will be there when you are silent
I will be there when you cry
I will wipe away the tears
That fill inside your eyes
I will walk alongside you
I will follow your lead
I will be there for you
In any way that you might need
by Gabrielle Elise Jimenez
The very best way we can support someone who is hurting, is to walk alongside them...
not ahead of them, or behind them, but right next to them, and to be there for them in
any way they need...
