To walk a mile in another’s shoes.
To proclaim empathy.
To know understanding.

You gave me these shoes to wear.
Another’s mile,
a gift once ungiven.

This welcomed clue
received with sympathy
May I walk a mile in their shoes.

Convenience resides,
but contrivances aside.
I will walk a mile in these shoes.

I have walked many miles.
The weight of understanding known.
This gift now given,
I won’t be pulled under tow.

They don’t carry burdens.
They don’t stutter with apathy.
I will wear them proudly.
Striding graciously.

I shall pay these arrears,
and disavow those tears.
For these aren’t just mules;
carried for miles or years.

These are just shoes,
worn with weight.
I shall carry them forward
with judicious gait.