Through Others Eyes

Through Others Eyes I often see him sitting there as I wander through the park. Always on the same bench, staring at the scene before him. His face mostly without expression, never smiling or acknowledging a ventured wave or nod. I wonder what thoughts and experiences are hidden behind the dark lenses that always cloak his eyes. Today I stop and take a seat beside him. I am startled by his hello. I return his greeting and remark on the beauty of the day. He agrees and relates how much he enjoys the smell of the lilacs and the sound of the trees stirring in the breeze. He likes to hear the traffic on the nearby street, and the voices that surround him as they pass him by. He comments on the pigeons that scurry around our feet, looking for the next handout. I usually bring some bread crumbs he says as I know they will be waiting I ask him if he lives nearby. He says no, he must take the bus to come here. A small price to pay to experience the life that lingers in the park he says. The days are ever changing and the sights and sounds do not repeat themselves. Life moves through here with bold steps he says. Much can be learned if we just sit and observe. I must admit you see much more then me, I say. Much of what you see I pass by without cognizance. It is refreshing to observe things through others eyes. I see the first sign of a smile Just a slight curling at the corners of his mouth. He rises and says he must be going. From his pocket, he withdraws a folded white cane and opens it to its fullest. He turns in my direction, thanks me for the visit and says “I hope to see you again”. Then with a muted tap, tap, tap, he slowly walks away.