I hear you.

I know you think I’m deaf,

but I heard that curse word.

I heard that comment.

I heard that complaint.

I also heard about your boyfriend

and your addiction

and the choice you have to make

this weekend:

teenage pregnancy

or not.

Dear students,

I know you think I’m blind.

But I saw that paper ball

and that thump

and that tear running down your face

the Monday after

you chose termination.

Dear students,

I know you think I’m heartless.

But I felt your pain

when you broke up with your boyfriend

when your mom kicked you out

when you suddenly weren’t pregnant anymore.

Dear students,

I pray for you.

And cry for you.

And worry about you.

And the wish I have for you

is that one day,

you love yourself

as much as I love you.