A Chance Encounter

Walking the local area coastline, Cup of coffee in the local Café Sitting, observing people passing Checking on dress sense today, Shoes, where did they purchase them? Spotted a homeless person Shabbily dressed and looking unkempt He appeared increasingly in the landscape Popping up in unusual places, staring at others faces. I realised the picnic area was his hideout Sleeping bags, plastic bags neatly stacked He lay asleep on the grass. Voices woke him from his slumber Gave a glance, no words spoken. He walked the village streets, locals avoiding him, Winter set in, he lived in the cold of the picnic areas, Spoke of his life when sitting in a comfortable home The conversation always finished with such a shame. One cold winters evening near Village shop Aware of a homeless person sitting near Huddled, sheltering from the cold wind on a street corner. Decided to approach him, enough of wondering Checked on what money I could share. When approaching he stood as if frightened, Standing close enough to touch each other Weariness on his face, easily seen. Eyes met in silence trying to understand what it was I wanted, Asked quite bluntly, what and why, No answers forthcoming just a shake of his head His eyes showed such torment, emotions coming to the surface, Never or ever again, seen such pain behind a gaze. Reached to place money in a tattered trouser pocket We shook hands, his hand having problems releasing from mine His grip was quite strong as we exchanged this greeting For an instant, a wry smile crossed his face. Realised that he was a young person His face showed his daily survival He spoke a thank you, as goodbye was spoken, Walked away with his eyes following. The memories of meeting with this homeless soul Went on and on and even visited dreams. Not seen since this meeting Moved on, looking for somewhere else safe to stay. Positive thoughts of what he was doing Imagining, what life was dealing him?