Greatest Treasure

As I walked through the park in the late sun's light, Watching the people jog by and a bird's lazy flight. An old man sat on a bench up ahead With the sun's rosy glow glistening on his head. He seemed so forlorn just sitting there, The breeze gently ruffling his white, thin hair. His hands were clasped around his trembling, knurled fingers And as I came closer I decided to linger. "Excuse me," I said with a smile, "Do you mind if I sit here for awhile?" His head came up as the old gentleman slowly stood And he said, "I'd be honored if you would." As we sat we talked of several things Of things in the past and what the future may bring. He spoke of the people who had walked by Never looking at him or saying hi. He was old, he said, and passed his prime. He understood - no one now had the time. People today have so much to do Spending time with the old ones is not what they choose. He had a son, he said with a sigh. Who he feared was letting life pass him by. His boy thought only of making money And he seldom saw nature's beauty or things that were funny. He was always in such a hurry dashing to and fro That he would never have a chance for his soul to grow. My eyes strayed from the man's wise face And saw someone walking towards us at a very fast pace. As he got closer he suddenly yelled, "Hey, Dad, let's go, I've got a date. We have to hurry, I don't wanna be late." The old man looked at me with sadness in his eyes As he rose and graciously told me good-bye. He shuffled away, such a lonely old soul Whose life's ups and downs had taken their toll. "Wait!" I said, heading his way There's something I'd like to say. Thank you, kind sir, for talking to me. You've been very enjoyable company. Then quickly I leaned and kissed his cheek On that face that once again had become old and bleak. Now it lit up with eyes much brighter As he walked towards his son with his step a little sprightlier. But the son stood impatiently as his dad came his way. Not realizing his greatest treasure was fading away.