Are We On The Same Page Yet? Poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar

If it seems I restrain myself from making complaints,
With an ignoring of yours to express an empathy?
Let me see if my memory serves me correctly!
And you may if you wish assist me with clarity

I remember there was a time,
When you said my problems were exclusively mine.
And today they don't seem to be that exclusive,
Do they?

Nor do I wish with you to reminisce,
With your complaints on my mind...
That you may expect,
That I should prioritize with time to find.

If it seems I restrain myself from making complaints,
With an ignoring of yours to express an empathy?
I agree. I don't empathize. Did you do that for me?
Are we on the same page yet?
Or is there something I didn't mention you'd like to express?

'Yes.'

What is that?

'Do unto others as you wish to have done to you.'

Oh?
Did you wish me to respond?
Or are you having a private moment?