encounter

I

saw you
there
sitting on the corner
you were
begging for food
money
help

when I
passed you by
anxious to get home
to where
safety
warmth
comfort
waited for me.

the sky was darkening
as day turned into
night
it was Christmas eve
and lights glowed in windows

so i read your sign
"God bless you"
and saw
your outstretched hand
feeling slightly guilty
as i did so
when the light turned
green
i pretended to ignore you
and
made excuses
as the world slipped by.

31.may.2008.