Pastoral Ministry

Sympathy believes that it understands
but in the deepest recesses of insecurity
it trembles mutely wringing its hands
and hopes that presence will be sufficient.
Compassion’s fearful energy blazes
trying its silent best to foster serenity
joining the other in emotional phases
that defy explanation, comprehension resistant.
Kindness stands mute, its care words unspoken,
anxious within the depths of uncertainty;
careful and timid with a heart that’s been broken,
extending gaze and hands both eager and hesitant.
“Why?” is the cry when the question really is “How?”
and “Because” isn’t the answer when the answer is “Now.”

– C Eric Funston, March 12, 2018