The Bagladys Shadow

Two brown carrier bags - that`s all she had ! One bore the remnants of yesterday`s dreams, The other a store of today`s necessities. I thought it sad, and watched awhile. She turned and caught my eye. Trapped ! I tried to smile - to comprehend What tortuous path had led her here ? Where were those who should be near To ease her anguished years ? She shuffled towards me, Tattered trainers, bandage bound, Grasped my hand in both of hers. Instinctively I stiffened, Then unwound and listened, Captured by her words: “Don`t grieve for what you think you see, This is just a shadow of the girl I used to be. Look into my eyes and see reflected there A past that dulls the pain through days of care".