Assumptions

I cannot know what my cat thinks 

As she watches the birds so intently: 

She could be wishing to chase and play, 

Or longing to catch and eat, 

Or simply wishing she could fly 

Free among the branches, and on the wind. 

She might not be looking at the birds at all, 

But eyeing a squirrel in the tall grass 

Over by the fence. 

Is she grateful for the glass that keeps her safe, 

Or does she resent it, and wish that it were gone? 

Though we learn to make assumptions, 

We can never know another’s thoughts 

 For sure unless they tell us and we listen, 

Any more than we can understand 

Our own motivations unless we stop 

And ask ourselves, and make time to listen…