How much time is truly required, For understanding to be acquired, Of that which makes us human beings, The human mind — such a complex machine.

The most complex in the universe: A brilliant machine, both a gift and a curse, Which holds our thoughts, our hopes, our fears, And constructs our dreams throughout the years.

Without it, we’d never feel love’s embrace, Hear a child’s laughter light up a space, See city lights touch the twilight skies, Or bask in the scent of baked apple pies.

The mind in which our consciousness lives, Our perceptions shaped, and meaning it gives To thoughts, ideas and memories — The essence that molds our realities.

So how much time to understand it, you ask? Well, 15 minutes should accomplish the task. Ask the financial experts if you disagree, They’ve timed compassion to the minute, you see.

“Be more efficient!” the system cries. Metrics mean more than those moistening eyes. Doctors will do what the system demands, Serving fast-food medicine across the land.

We can change meds and jump to conclusions. You know everyone loves a quick solution. To fully understand, we don’t have the time — Besides, that a therapist’s job, not mine.

We put all the focus on medication, In constant search for new inspiration. Who still remembers the biopsychosocial model, When the incentive’s to treat minds with a chemical throttle?

Yet with all of our knowledge and pills applied, There remains an epidemic of suicide. Beneath all our efforts, what have we neglected? Could it perhaps be the human connection?

So, what’s the importance of time for our care? If you’ll permit me, I’d like to share — To be understood, alone, is a healing force, And understanding requires time to listen, of course.