Frustration.

Do you ever feel like
you are
not
having a conversation
with someone-
but rather, while you are talking
their face is saying, "i am listening"
when really
underneath
their mind is racing
analying every word you're saying
coming up with some retort?
some argument
to displace your musing?
and you realize
they weren't listening at all
and what you have said
has no effect on them

and is not valued

which is expressed
simply
by the act.

sometimes i wish a punch in the stomach could open the ears
and dismantle pride.