The Listener

Today I'm Richard, brain damaged from an accident. Cindy needs to let me go. It's okay Mom, I say. She signs the papers and begins the healing.

Tomorrow someone else will unload. People whisper, and I assume their burdens. It's a gift and a curse. Even my therapist can't conceal his baggage. One word and suddenly I'm his dysfunctional wife. I'm awash in endless waves of human suffering. I have no recourse.

Regina unknowingly signs a solution. Her ears for my ears. We are each other's savior. It stops the inner voices, but I miss the music, especially the blues.