Are You Listening

By Harilaos (Harry) Stefanakis

It is late in the world
the heroes have all been tamed
my knife is dull, no blood to give
but do not listen to me

My tears look for clouds
to carry them forth
drowning the earth
but do not listen to me

You are the whet stone
and the blade to cleave
truth from the stars
will we listen to you

He holds my hand below the drought
his voice is multitudes

The day has come
raise us before the years
make dull the stones
can you hear us

You were the guides
we are the journey
trees grow in our tracks
can you hear us

We offer feathers
for your minds to fly
beyond fear and greed
can you hear us

I let go, and where they walk, a forest rises
are you listening


About the Author
Harilaos (Harry) Stefanakis is a versatile author, psychologist, and educator. Through his professional and creative work, he aims to document the human experience while also using words to mend life’s fractures and inspire life-affirming possibilities. He resides in Vancouver, BC, with his wife and son where he enjoys the emerald beauty of the Pacific Northwest and frequently travels to his ancestral homeland in Crete, Greece, cultivating a deep connection to his roots. Find out more about Harry and his work on his website.


Read articles on climate change, sustainability, education, and more from GTEC’s Communication & Media (formally GTEC Blog)!

GTEC is listening to what young people have to say about the climate crisis. Read and listen to their thoughts and feelings in the March 2024 issue of the GTEC Reader.