Walking in another person’s shoes

Yes, it sits easy in the mouth
And comforts our minds
When injustice intrudes
Into our personal spaces

To say we FEEL empathy
Well, that might be reason enough to reassure our hearts
Acknowledging unfortunate circumstance
Before tucking it into bed
With a pat on the head and an empty hug

No, I assert
That should not be the end of the story
Do not let such small gestures appease you
Dig deeper

Wear those uncomfortable shoes
Past a short leisurely stroll
Run those grueling extra miles
Though those shoes might be
Too big or too small
Or riddled with holes in heel and toe

Soles worn thin
Let blisters form that you might feel
The weariness in your back as your heels pound in time
With the heartbeat of another

Only then will their story
Be yours to tell
Because it will become
Your story too

Live empathy