On Not Pushing to "Help" Others

and what if walls
instead of defensive barriers
were invitations
to come closer
(but not too close)
to listen
(but not ask too many questions)
to sit next to
(but not climb over)

What if walls were our inventions
for pacing connections
for promoting softer revelations
for creating the slow
but certain loosening
the gradual letting down
of our ancient inner drawbridges