Help

Help me be quick to listen

To actually hear the words

That are being said to me

Help me not to be dismissive

Of those talking to me

Or make them unloved

Help me to be slow to speak

To think of the words

Before I speak them

Help me to say the right thing

And not be disparaging

Or use offhand comments

Help me be slow to anger

To not answer back

With first thing in my head

Help me to think rationally

About every situation

And not get so defensive

Help me to protect my heart

From the words and actions of others

And not let them bring me down

Help me to love others

Even in the midst of hurt and pain

When all I want to do is hate

Help me to set an example

And show those who hurt me

The love than radiates from you

Jo Anne Kennedy

June 2019