Ten minutes to write. Less time to read.

There are days when I feel completely alone, regardless of the situation or the people involved. It’s an occupational hazard.

I’m a good listener and a good problem solver, so much of my interactive time is spent listening to others and helping them. I really don’t mind, except when things in my own life are challenging and I want support. Where do I turn?

I don’t.

There is no one I can think of who will listen to me without an agenda or a slate of advice or a clucking attitude. There is no one who will offer a total ear and support without admonition. Who will say, “Just talk and I’ll listen. I promise not to give advice.”

The thing is, sometimes I merely want to vent. To exclaim. To be heard. I don’t want someone to solve my problem. I can handle most things. Instead what I want is sympathy, emotional support. Unconditional. Perhaps even passionate, although this isn’t a requisite.

Mostly what I’d like is to be heard.