PAY ATTENTION

I pay attention. I see the sadness in a young schoolgirl’s eyes When she has been cruelly ridiculed and ostracized. For what? She doesn’t look the same As others; too tall, too fat, too blonde. Does she have the wrong last name? I pay attention. I see the old woman setting alone on her sunny porch Accompanied by lush green plants silently watching her. Caressed by the purring of contented multicolored cats, Alone, but herself content to be out of the race. I see satisfaction and relief on her calm, but weathered face. I pay attention: I see the fast-paced hustle of the young entrepreneur, So excited, but anxious, rushing to be the first there, Where his efforts and sacrifice finally make the grade. He’s given his all to elevate his life and pave a new way. He is reaping sweet rewards his own hands have made. I pay attention: I see the patterns and the interconnected revelations As a host of humanity marches through my life. Leaving their own special nuances and inspiration, I reflect the collage of their unintended influences. I wonder what my own contribution will be. Will someone, someday, pay attention to me? Copyright Chula Schlesinger-Fleming © 10/10/2024