The Safer Way

I asked you to help me pick up the pieces of my broken life,
and you told me reasons why I should be happy.

When we met on the street, you said “How are you doing?”
and then you told me all about your life.

That day I called you when I learned of my father’s death,
I could hardly speak. You told me God wanted him more
than I did.

How callous and careless we are with each other.
Hear me. See me.
Speak with your heart, not your mind.

Tomorrow I have my surgery, and I am so afraid.
Are you afraid, too?
Is it safer for you to engage my mind rather
than my soul?
I do not need reasons or answers or advice.
I need you.
Please.