When I Listen

I’m not a good listener, I confess

I often tend to talk in excess

But there I times when I am present

In places where a minority I represent

Where I am considered good enough to receive an invitation

But not good enough to make a contribution

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That expressing myself would be futile, this fact once I realize

I decide to stay quiet and often, to my surprise

I listen intently to the discussion around me

And unlike my usual self, I become a listener extraordinary

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I have learnt a lot by listening passively

Being unimportant is a blessing actually

When I cannot talk, I must hear what others have to say

And I pick up valuable advice along the way