An interesting exercise Petrus gives to Paulo especially when he makes him close his eyes to listen to him tell a story. Not for a moment can he open his eyes and he can smell the oil from the old locomotive where they are sitting…and he listens.
When I think of listening, I cannot help but be reminded of the work I do. Seventeen years ago, I would strain my ears to listen to a caller tell his story. The strain was not to hear the words, it was the body language I was used to that now I had to learn to hear it through the phone. Within months, my hearing became sharper and grew a lense to see. I could hear the frown and sadness at the beginning of a phone call and after a long time…minutes or hours, I could hear an image of this person who had transformed at the end of the call.
tears echo
soft whimpering
telling a tale
telling a tale
a story long overdue
that slow release
as she says goodnight
I can hear a smile
©Tournesol’17/01/29
Tournesol dans un Jardin 
Love that last line – I can hear a smile!
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Thanks, Kim. I actually tell youths who call our helpline that when I hear a change in their voice:) We develop a sixth sense
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Beautiful ! I worked as telephonist many years ago, I understand perfectly what you mean.
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Thanks for dropping by to read my Cheryl Lyn
Indeed listening and hearing are two different functions
much love…
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I enjoyed your beautiful haiku on facebook and learned about NaHaWri too:)
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Moving as ever. I know this can take a toll on you, too. Love from Texas Two.
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Thank you, Janice. The work is good actually, I take care of myself and have great managers:)
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