There is hope when we gather around a table
hope when words are heard and listened to
hope when we nod our heads to understand
hope when we can say "No" to disagree
hope when silence is respected
hope when we rejoice in chorus
hope when we pause from talking
giving the silent ones their voice.

Elizabeth Padillo Olesen

http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/hope-when-we-gather/