I see what happens to you,

But can't prevent it.

I know how you're troubled,

But I can't help you.

I sense the pain you hold,

But I can't fix it.

I dream to help you succeed,

But there's next to nothing I can do.

I watch on the sidelines

As you're torn apart, and I'm

Terrified, horrified,

At the small, seemingly miniscule

Things you face so coolly

Every day.

I want to help – but –

There is nothing I can do.

I listen as you describe

The things you've gone through,

Unable to imagine

Myself in your place.

That's all I can do –

Listen and try to

Help in any way I can,

But I am quite literally

Helpless.