“Whoever closes his ear to the cry of the poor will himself call out and not be answered.”–Proverbs 21:13
I see you.
Hunched in the same coffee shop, more mornings than not.
Your head may be bowed, but you don’t seem broken–yet.
I see you.
Making swift inspections of all, but direct contact for none.
Sipping, or pretending to sip, from that emblazoned cup.
I see you.
Full head of gray hair trimmed in an unfashionable way.
Body thick. Were you once strong?
I see you.
Sitting in the usual spots around town as the evening sun sets.
Cart by your side, you remain visibly near people. Why?
I see you.
Blankets folded; stacked tidily upon that cart.
Socks drip-drying from the top
I see you.
Peaceful. Reserved. Quiet.
What were you like as a child?
I see you.
Did your mom sing to you and call you dear?
Did you have a father proudly call you son?
I see you.
Did you laugh, romp, and hoot with other boys your age;
Eat ice cream, blow bubbles, or catch a lightening bug in a jar?
I see you.
What is your name?
What is your story?
I know you see me too
Because one day, by chance, or was it purpose,
Your eyes met mine.
I saw the glint.
Short though it was.
Was that acceptance that I saw?
I see you.
Steph Simply 