July 11: Homeless Visitor, Seeking Work

Homeless Visitor, Seeking Work

Late in the day, I’m winding down.

I could be doing ‘most anything,

Thinking about going out on the town,

And that’s when I hear the doorbell ring,

And I wonder who that person might be,

And just what it is he'd be asking of me.

Whatever it is, I’ll have to say “no.”

And tell the brother that he’s got to go.

It turns out that it’s someone I’ve seen  before

On another day when I needed a hand.

He’s hoping I have yet another chore.

It’s just not something for which I had planned.

Of course, he’s ready to tell his tale:

Just a few dollars to get out of the cold.

It’s hard to make it when you’re just out of jail.

It’s tough to take it when you’re sick.  Or old.

It’s just he and I, both standing there.

I don’t want to tell him that I just don’t care.

Maybe tomorrow, I’ll be down on my luck,

So I reach in my pocket and I hand him a buck,

Not knowing where the money will go.

Did I give too much?  Do I not give enough?

Is it concern or impatience I show?

Will I ever learn to get tough?

Because now it’s me running out of money,

And where shall I look for a friend?

I feel I’ve been milked and I don’t get no honey,

‘Cause I just don’t have nothing to spend.

“Thanks for the dollar.  Now what is your task?”
                 I say, “I’m sorry.”  I have nothing to ask.

I don’t want to have him come into my walls,

But I give him my number so he can give me a call,

And I won’t have to face him face to face.

"God bless you, sir.  You know you've been very kind,"

And I’m grateful that at least I have a place

Though I’m in my own kind of bind,

Still needing to think about how I serve

In my lifestyle, my dollars and cents,

Like so many others, I’m seeking the nerve

To choose a dream; get off of my fence.

Of course, I need a balanced vision

I need to find a real opportunity;

I see the implications in every decision

For myself and the Great Community.

So then as I think about my life and my role,

The doorbell rings another alarm.

I know we don’t have to pay the toll,

But we do have to face our karma!