Homelessness

Hand written cardboard signs Held up by soiled hands Asking for food, for change. New to the game and still clean Rookie looking like He just went out for a walk Stood curbside Taking tips from the veteran. His anguish ridden face Spoke volumes. No huddle necessary Just teamwork setting up for the play. From one car to the next Some give some don’t. I was ready this time. $2 and a bottle of water Was all I had to give, Then the hand off. Grateful thanks given in return Just in time before the light changed. The Veteran’s pep talk to the rookie Faded as I drove off: “See? That’s all you gotta do.” Burrowed itself deep within me. I’ve learned that each trip I make Over the bridge presents An opportunity to help another. Especially when I’m on my way To help others that have, But need just a little more To get them through. So if I can’t make the play At the first light, I know I’ll make it at the next one. They’re all over the city. Seeing so many different faces Is an all too familiar a reminder That there are NO exemptions. Homelessness doesn’t discriminate. But we can make a difference Because one day this could be us. Proactively using your heart Whether it be today, tomorrow Or the day after will prove To make a world of difference In the lives of the less fortunate. If you know someone Helped you along your way And you’re doing okay It’s just as easy to give To help someone else Get back up in whatever Way you can. That’s all you gotta do. Proverbs 21:13 - Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor, he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard. 9/18/19