The Dignity of It All

The Dignity Of It All Don’t look me in the eye Don’t look at me and sigh Or shake your head and wonder why As I walk along the street Ensuring our eyes never meet I frown, and look down at my feet A mere and simple cleaner Don’t laugh at my demeanour Don’t be sad, for there are no keener No barrister am I No educated guy Don’t look me in the eye! That dirty, menial task Which for nobody would ask (Nor do I behind this subtle mask) I pick your rubbish of the floor While you hurry through the door Who am I to ask for more? But if you gave another look You’d surely bring yourself to book For my “lack of pride” you’ve sure mistook I may clean up all your dregs But I’m not one who begs Not while I can stand on my own two legs Don’t think that it’s a pity As you travel through the city Don’t dare question my dignity! For you see I’m very proud Of that I’d shout aloud Above the heads of any crowd Because, in my mind, I guess Somebody must clean up your mess Though it’s me I am no less An honest person - just like you Who takes pride in what they do (Is there a moral in here too?) Don’t look me in the eye We just can’t see eye to eye As I pick up your junk and sigh.