Compassion

A way of living and a poem.

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My name is Tanner Olson and I am an author, poet, and speaker. Here I share whatever comes to mind. Often I’ll post a prayer or poem or reflection or story. Before you move onto the next thing hit the subscribe button! Thanks for being here.

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The other day a friend asked me to share my poem, Compassion, with the audience she was speaking to.

This isn’t one I often read at events, but was happy to share it.

The poem can be found in my book, Walk A Little Slower: A Collection of Poems and Other Words.

Compassion

You didn’t say anything.

You just sat there.

Next to me.

With me.

For me.

You didn’t try to make it better.

You didn’t begin to rationalize or minimize or socialize.

You just sat there.

Next to me.

With me.

For me.

And when I spoke, you listened.

You didn’t offer advice or attempt to say something nice.

You didn’t tell me how I was feeling or what I was needing.

You didn’t interrupt or disrupt.

You just sat there.

Next to me.

With me.

For me.

And when I got quiet, you didn’t try to fill the silence.

You didn’t.
It’s like you knew I didn’t need you to say anything.

You just sat there.

Next to me.

With me.

For me.

And I let you know when I was ready to get up and go.

And you came with.

Next to me.

With me.

For me. 

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