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Shame Died Today

Consumed by doubt, down but not out Swig of whiskey tickles the throat rags for a coat Down on his luck, surviving on pluck Bums another cigarette breaks out in cold sweat Begs unabashedly points to you and me Inside, you shudder ~ unashamed, I flee

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Terry Flood

Date: 12/14/2023 6:15:00 PM

I must ashamedly admit that this went over my head. However, reading other’s comments reset my mindset and I read again… Wow… a stark visualisation of everyday inner city homelessness. Have I closed my eyes so that I do not see? I’d like to say, “No,” but I have to say “Probably”.

Gershon Wolf
Date: 12/14/2023 6:17:00 PM

Eyes wide open, Terry --- I still don't see...

Bj Legros Kelley

Date: 12/14/2023 3:22:00 PM

I have offered food, but usually not money, fearing the purchase of more of their debilitating vice of choice. Sometimes you best flee, we must listen to instinct and common sense for certain.

Paul Bell

Date: 12/14/2023 2:21:00 PM

The way of the world now. We look, we judge, we walk away.

Robert Zimmerman

Date: 12/14/2023 11:47:00 AM

GW. Interesting commentary and reflection on a sad observation. ZIM

Panagiota Romios

Date: 12/14/2023 9:35:00 AM

We never know a persons mental and physical state. I am for compassion before judgement. And a great saying is! “There but for the grace of God, go I.” We dont know him. He maybe mentally ill in some form, but I have seen this attitude here before, not new, G! You expressed your feelings well.

Hilda Greenhough

Date: 12/14/2023 6:47:00 AM

Alcohol does strange things to the brain. I have evolved into being a little selfish; to spare myself from the burden of being a codependent. Cut the binds loose. Poem is truly informative.

Sara Etgen-Baker

Date: 12/14/2023 4:22:00 AM

I feel and act the same way, too, sometimes. The words that come to mind are 'personal responsibility.'