Poem: When We Asked for Help

When We Asked for Help

it was never offered
without strings, without costs,
was never truly help at all
or was not what was needed,
was only an appearance of help
that made more work in its wake.
It was clear: you did not desire 
to be of assistance, only offered
because you felt obligated,
but felt even the offer
made us obliged.  It was unpleasant.

It was that way so much,
was never simple, always ulterior,
loaded.  The help 
became a way to take from us,
to say you were doing what we asked,
that it was in our interests, for our benefit.
You did not want to do it, but
if it was necessary, you would find a way,
would squeeze it in, but it was clear,
you did not want to.  We did not matter
except as a hindrance, unwanted and in need.
Do not pretend it was never this way.

If you do not know, will not admit it,
that is only more evidence against you.
It was always clear.  You made it clear
each time.  And now, when we say, no,
we do not need your help, have made arrangements
are prepared to do without anything you offer,
now, you seem so insulted, seem hurt
that we have rejected your kindness.
You keep offering, keep saying 
you will do this, will do that,
but we do not want that kind of help.
Does it burn you inside
that you cannot have this still?

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