Quick Encounters

Some people are just uncomfortable She is putting on a smile under her mask I don’t know if it’s her or it’s me She’s nice, a little hurried Even her son’s spirit seems lost to the horizon They are no strangers Some people hurry and still make me feel safe mask or no mask There is a message tucked away behind one’s flesh I can meet a stranger even have a quick encounter and feel kinship The lady in the Santa hat ringing her bell at this time of year as if she’s always been there She’s warm Her message says, “Hello.” Nothing nefarious, truly kind Don’t get me wrong it could be me… Maybe I’m too approachable encroaching in an unwanted space… Still the angel that went to heaven had wide open arms it could be me… I will always wonder but then I’m too old to be bothered