For when we meet

I want a new ritual
for when we don't agree
I know it happens often,
so hear out my plea:

Remember to pause,
start closing the eyes,
take a deep breath,
place a hand on the heart.

Soften the gaze,
lower the tone.
Have some water
and start from the top.

I heard you are hurting,
but it didn't get through.
Could you mind repeating
about your unheard truth?

We can speak slowly,
take our own time.
Clear out the schedule,
get a rain check if it's hard.

Go gentle with the facts,
don't jump to conclusions.
Be curious about
what feels as intrusion.

Strive for understanding,
brainstorm strategies,
draft doable agreements,
honor new boundaries.

If you want something like that,
please give me a sign.
I cannot guess if right now,
you just smiled or frown.