Exposed Empathy

While visiting with others their ghosts intrude
whispering their sadness into my bones,
sharing withheld tears and cancerous sores.

It is easier to be out in nature
where sunshine seeps into my soul
birds sing god’s praises and flowers

capture dew to adorn their petals.
Creatures scamper through the grass
and life seems blessed and sacred,

but in the company of humans
I can’t resist their worries and fears
where they reveal their darkness

disrupting my tranquility
taking me where they dwell
in dark caverns at the borders of hell.

When I was younger I could resist
but as I age my boundaries are less secure
I can offer comfort but they want more.