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In Streets of Solitude

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Forgiveness or Solitude Poetry Contest, Sponsor - Ink Empress. Date written: 12/8/2024

In streets of solitude... A societal ghost ambles through A bustling concrete jungle unnoticed. A lost soul with sartorial handicap, Carrying life inside his overstuffed backpack. His face is weather-beaten; Reflecting wasted years, Loneliness and pain. His hungry, pleading eyes Dart from one passerby to the next. No one cares enough to approach, To find out his name. It's Jack. A few stop by to toss pennies Into his Styrofoam cup. No one sticks around to talk to him. His stomach often grumbles With hunger; The world blind to his plight. He wants more than a friendly wave At those waiting out a stop light Half of those don't even look in Jack's direction Because of pride, he doesn't Knock at car windows and ask... "Can you kindly spare a dollar?" A forgotten citizen left to fend for himself. He might as well be locked away In prison; out of sight, out of mind. Who searches, cries, and prays for this lost soul? America unwilling To bring this outsider in from the cold. She looks past him like cellophane. Campaigning politicians release A laundry list of plans that don't include Helping him to rise above his dismal circumstances. None of their promises include Sheltering this poor folk roaming about Like a stray dog, living under a bridge And sleeping in a makeshift tent. Sadly, it will always be this way In streets of solitude.

Copyright © | Year Posted 2024




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Date: 12/17/2024 8:56:00 AM
Dear EI, your approach for this prompt is so very impressive and just beyond poignant and soulfully meaningful! One that i didnt think of too, but seems so fitting. Its so sad and iv often seen when traveling in so many places some like how youv described in your poem, isolated and ignored by society, and living in extreme sad conditions, it is heart wrenching to see and witness. I absolutely felt this poem so deeply! And your empathy and understanding of all can be evident; a fave this is, congratulations on your well deserved win,
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Edward Ibeh
Date: 12/18/2024 8:38:00 AM
Oh wow, thank you very much indeed for such a lovely feedback, congratulations and fave, Inky:-) You've made my day, my friend. Happy holidays!
Date: 12/8/2024 5:14:00 PM
Sad to say many of them choose this life. Often they are given help but due to addictions, criminal activity and unresolved mental health issues (many refuse to take their meds) they are right back on the street. It's not a political issue, it's a moral one. Only God's kingdom can eliminate homelessness forever. Hey, awesome write
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Edward Ibeh
Date: 12/8/2024 8:30:00 PM
I echo your sentiments, Tom:-) Thank you for the wonderful feedback and visit, my friend.

Book: Reflection on the Important Things