Look Both Ways Before Crossing

What better way to understanding
than simply listening for once?
Stop claiming, wanting and demanding,
and give the answer half a chance.
And no, not only to appease them;
you've no monopoly on wisdom,
and listening, you might just learn
that what they long for and they yearn
is not so different and appalling.
Compassion, dignity, respect.
That's what they want, what they expect
and so would you, should you come calling.
That's what the ancient writings teach.
And also: practice what you preach.