Time is fleeting

And with so much left to say,

We can't afford not to listen;

We can't waste another day.

So listen to me the way you love me

Uninterrupted and judgment free

Know that to understand me

Listening is key.

When pulled into conversation,

Do my words pass you by?

Do you agree to disagree,

If only to save time?

I speak not only to be heard,

But also to be understood.

So listen to me the way you love me

And hear me as you should.

Ever missed the slightest tremble, 

In my voice as I masked despair?

Or dismissed my hesitation,

Making me feel that you don't care?

My silence and tones are messages,

Disguised within my words.

So listen to me the way you love me,

And sense the feelings beyond my words.

When lost in conversation, 

Do you often miss my reply?

Unsure of how to start again,

You settle for, "goodbye?"

Don't miss me when I'm gone,

If you dismiss me while I'm here.

So listen to me the way you love me,

And don't just disappear.

My words are my soul in writing,

For all the world to hear.

When it feels like no one's listening, 

You assure me that you're near.

You listen to prove you love me,

Just as I know you do.

Now I'll return the favor,

And listen to you the way I love you too.