I do understand!!

I look at him in pain,

And lightly smile again.

He might think I jest,

His sorrows, wounds, unrest.

I've fought battles on my own,

Survived, and I have grown.

I smiled not to belittle,

But to say, "I understand a little."

His pain, I comprehend,

His wounds, I've had to mend.

His hopes, dreams so grand,

I've faced them, I understand.

I smiled, not in jest,

But to show, I've faced the test.

I've lived for myself, fought the strife,

In constant struggle, I've built my life.

I speak the truth, I want you to see,

I'm familiar with your agony.

He may know me by name,

I assure you, our struggles are the same.

I speak the truth, no pretense,

I understand your pain, hence.

I'm acquainted with your story,

In empathy, I share my glory.