A Walk Down Autumn's Path

Listen

[Poem]

Listen to the words I say, under my breath and at the top of my lungs.

Know that each one has an emotion behind it, but not each one a meaning.

Just listen to each one, take them in like a cold drink sliding over a thirsty tongue.

The words I say are important; some hurting, some smiling, some repeating.

I'll say some in spite, hate, or anger, shouting at the top of my voice.

I'll say some in love, awe, or compassion, whispers sliding through my teeth.

The ones I say that are brash, with a throat growing hoarse,

but those are the ones I don't want you to keep.

I want you to hear the words that I say when I'm myself and in the right mind.

I want you to keep them locked away in your heart, forever holding them close. 

Don't lose your compassion to my silly mistakes and the shouts that I throw left and right.

Rather, keep your head focused on my love and the words that are beautiful as a blossoming rose.

When I make a decision that may not seem to be the best, don't forget that I've done you wrong.

But do remember forgiveness is a virtue, and that I'm learning every step on this path.

I've stepped in my ruts and times I've found my foot stuck, and I can't make my way along.

But you always wedge me free and help me to strive, and that keeps me from turning back.

I'll never give up, I'll never repeat a mistake, and I'll always try to get better for you.

I'll never throw you an angry word that I mean, I'll never spite you with my tongue.

I'll get better for you, I'll keep my head for you, and I'll always stand tall and walk fast for you.

I'll shower you in love, with words like roses, and I'll shout that love at the top of my lungs.

So listen to the words I say, under my breath and at the top of my lungs.

Know that each one has an emotion behind it, but not each one a meaning.

Just listen to each one, take them in like a cold drink sliding over a thirsty tongue.

The words I say are important; some hurting, some smiling, some repeating.

I'll say some in spite, hate, or anger, shouting at the top of my voice.

I'll say some in love, awe, or compassion, whispers sliding through my teeth.

The ones I say that are brash, with a throat growing hoarse,

but those are the ones I don't want you to keep.

Just Listen.

"The words I will repeat most for you, forever and always; I love you. I'll always man so."