of Empaths (like Me)

it often isn't easy holding empathy
wihtin the heart for those whose worlds are falling down.
right from the start to feel each wince of pain, each frown
as tho it were your own disease or destiny,

then soothe their ailing spirits setting hurt aside
that dwells within your soul, their suffering because,
tend well their wounds with healing balms and gentle gauze
and smoothe their grief-lined features while your own must hide.

but not for nothing some have this propensity.
nor just for good of those whose throes we feel within
or healing we might bring! - (let me confess a sin
'tis not for them alone. i own a gluttony

that hungers for the progress empathy bestows
toward earning paradise beyond this earth, i s'pose.)