Too Late

	He, beseeching –

I raised my pleading eyes
as I saw you pass by.
You looked through me.
I was invisible.
My eyes searched
for understanding.
You did not say “I’m sorry.”
You busied your nose in your phone.
My thirst apparent yet 
you offered nothing.
You clutched your coffee tighter
although you saw my want.
Your bagel a life-send,
you passed by imploring hands.
You turned away
from my entreating pain.

	I, reproving –

Too late…to comfort you.
Too late…to buy your lunch.
Too late…to bring you coffee.
Too late…to listen to your stories.
Too late…to offer consolation.
Too late…to extend compassion.
Too late…to save myself.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2024

Poem

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Beaufort Avatar
October 18, 2024 at 7:23 AM
Linda, this is a pleasure to read as it makes me think of how I treat others on the giving and receiving end. It's often hard to determine which end I'm on since life is a constant give and take. However, there is a lot to be learned by dividing things up in this way. Smiles!!
Fowler Avatar
October 18, 2024 at 10:19 AM
Many thanks Duke. I agree. I do look for opportunities to be on the giving end as much as possible. :)
Bell Avatar
October 17, 2024 at 6:24 AM
Relationships should come with a health warning, but would we change things before things change themselves. This is a tough one that many will relate with.
Fowler Avatar
October 18, 2024 at 10:20 AM
Very true Paul. Thanks for stopping by! :)
Gasun Avatar
October 10, 2024 at 12:16 AM
I enjoyed this awesome poem my dearest poet friend Linda. Very well -crafted and expressed. But how about the saying, better late than never? :) A stellar write as a whole and i immensely enjoyed it. Thanks for sharing. God bless you always and your writings. Hugs
Fowler Avatar
October 10, 2024 at 6:20 AM
Hello my friend! True...an act of kindness is never too late. hugs! :)
Vaso Avatar
October 9, 2024 at 11:31 PM
Just a very touching poem.
Fowler Avatar
October 10, 2024 at 6:19 AM
Thank you Arthur. We seldom think what it is like to walk in another's shoes. :)
Greenhough Avatar
October 6, 2024 at 12:28 AM
He sounds very selfish. Relationships should be equal.
Fowler Avatar
October 6, 2024 at 8:43 AM
Hmmm...good question Hilda. Thanks for stopping by. :)
Richards Avatar
October 6, 2024 at 12:18 AM
Relationships are not complicated, as some would have it. It is often a one-way street. "Too late…to save myself." A heart felt line, Linda. Have a great Sunday :)
Fowler Avatar
October 6, 2024 at 8:42 AM
Many thanks Suzette, and yes, relationships are only as complicated as one makes them. If one is into drama and darkness, they can be horrendous. If one is into love and laughter, they will envelope that into their relationships. Fun-filled Sunday to you! :)
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