Sat still, his back resting against the dirty brick wall

He, like the facade that he leaned against

begrimed, likely unpleasant to the touch

He smiled a nervous smile, apprehensive, awkward

Cradling close, a defensive metal crutch

Many walked, avoiding him, clearly incensed

He was unwelcome, passers-by rejected him one and all

 

I walked between line painted boxed parked cars in rows 

Heading in his direction, our eyes met briefly

I smiled a social smile, not wanting to appear rude

He returned a tight-lipped smile, hoping to conceal his stress

As I looked closer, I could see his cold hands blued

His scraps of food I saw as meagre and measly

More unfabricated holes in his attire than clothes

 

On the faces of those who should know better

I witnessed the sarcastic smiles of quiet derision

His life lived without basic hope, his opportunities in denial

Reading their scorned faces, he slowly appeared to shrink

With considered disdain, I raised a contemptuous smile

I felt my humanity bubble, formulating my decision

I’d be a benefactor to life, not an uncaring debtor

 

Exiting the market, a path took me towards him

Politely, I smiled as the space between was narrowing 

I could see his anxiety and his unease, so I smiled

A genuine smile, my gesture, recognised and reciprocated. 

We shared a purchased coffee and a sandwich for a while.

He told me of his struggles, of his military life, harrowing

The crutch was not for defence, but to replace a lower limb 

 

Those on the streets are not living their chosen lifestyle

Charity begins with a few coins and a sincere smile