DO YOU MIND?

     To read, your mind
would that enable me to brainwash?
to manipulate and destroy
like individuality
that is
sacrificed to the sake of
conformity
for the educational ideal

     If I could read your mind
I could gain insight, no doubt
learn your true feelings
never to second guess or assume again
I would indeed gain insight
However, there is that risk that I would
discover thoughts
that I would not want to know

     And I very well couldn't tell people
about my secret powers
half would think I was insane
the other half would exploit me
which is the same
isn't it?

     I am sure 
you would be angered by me
invading your privacy and all
I, hearing your every thought as you think it
never to misunderstand you again!
Though I would hate feeling like a spy
then I would feel guilty
for it is
none of my business
after all, what gives me the right?
who am I to invade your mind?
But by then it would be too late to stop it
and then?
and then?

     Maybe if I could read your mind
I could turn it off like a switch
only reading when I wish to
like a book at my disposal
     or better yet 
you could tell me how
you feel once and awhile
but reality calls and reminds me of the truth
If I could
only read your mind
and if you could only
read mine
as well.