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About This Poem
The Walker
I use a walker to get around
A device I need in order
To maintain my balance
So I walk slowly.
People rush by
Not seeing me
Making me feel that I am in their way
Some are impatient
I feel their warm breath on my neck
As I try to pass through the subway turnstile
On my way to work
Just like everyone else.
A few say their sorry
Over time I’ve learned
That people say things they don’t mean.
I tire easily
Occasionally stopping to catch my breathe
When that happens
Gestures are all I have
Since my hands are busy
Sometimes my face becomes like putty
Primed to be explicit in nature
Grimaces
Winks
Smiles
A nod
Laughter
Mouthing the words thank you for a door held open.
If forced,
By a unexpected blocked exit
Or a person suddenly veering in front of me
I do something
That crosses the line
Melodramatic
Emotional
Or angry
I do this because it’s the only thing I can do.
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