The Callous Homeowner

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The Homeowner is mean-spirited to a recycler who is trying to get by.

Proverbs 14:31 “He who oppresses the poor reproaches his Maker, but he who honors him has mercy on the needy.”

No trespassing! You with the straw hat you need to go You’ve a startled face that laughs as you scratch your belly Recycle man and your thirty-nine-gallon bag in tow There’s nothing to salvage here, only rubbish I throw It’s my property which you invade, you’re in my alley No trespassing! You with the straw hat you need to go You're an eyesore to behold, I told you long ago But words mean nothing, man of rubbish so smelly Recycle man and your thirty-nine-gallon bag in tow My hands shake, I pray that you don’t come by tomorrow I’ve seen you eat out of the can, this isn’t a deli No trespassing! You with the straw hat you need to go A penny a dime a quarter, it's chump change you borrow What can these empties buy what is your tally? Recycle man and your thirty-nine-gallon bag in tow Haunting dreams in which you appear, it irks me so I’ll set a trap for you, a poisoned biscuit and jelly No trespassing! You with the straw hat you need to go Recycle man and your thirty-nine-gallon bag in tow

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Valsa George

Date: 4/13/2022 9:28:00 PM

Some people are so hard hearted ! They never think that the affluence they enjoy is God's gift ! Their attitude to the poor and needy is one of contempt with no trace of compassion. A poor recycle man who struggles to make a living is abused so badly... ! A highly touching piece Anaya

I Am Anaya
Date: 4/14/2022 1:17:00 PM

A non-fiction piece--When I cash-in at the recycling center I listen to their stories about how badly they are treated when recycling in the street, (gas-stations, grocery store centers), etc. It is a good thing to recycle! Thank you, Valsa...I really appreciate your opinion. : )

Alexis Y.

Date: 2/28/2022 3:05:00 PM

WoW! Anya, This is a moving piece about an ignorant and mean spirited home owner. No one knows why a person is homeless and down on their luck. We as people need to have more compassionate. Cause the roles can be flipped without warning. This is a winning a message. Best wishes in the contest. Have a nice day-Alexis

I Am Anaya
Date: 2/28/2022 5:32:00 PM

Good to hear from such a compassionate and understanding friend Alexis! You get it!...Bless you

Rico Leffanta

Date: 2/28/2022 11:04:00 AM

The BBC comedy, "Steptoe and Son" and Antique Roadshow highlight how rag and bone men can prosper. Would you rather they were like German coal miners, who wear a suit and tie to work? Dumpster diving is an occupation like any other, some take pride in their work whilst others leave the site worse than they found it. Education is the answer. Enjoyed, Anaya!

I Am Anaya
Date: 2/28/2022 11:51:00 AM

A title change was necessary in order to clear up the meaning of my poem...I myself am a recycler, who has also faced unfair scrutiny. Rico, thanks for your help.