Shoes

You know there are days when even the sun is too dark.
There are times, of course when I hope for a change,
perhaps in myself
perhaps from every other person I might chance to encounter.
I understand the inanity of such a wish, but who cannot help to think:
"Perhaps that man will smile at me today." If not consciously,
then certainly as a hidden wish.
We only recognize the power of a kind gesture once it's been made.
Though beforehand we may hope to surmise the extent of our
benevolence, it's deceptive in its consequences
Unforseen but deliciously satisfying.
There are times when even the clouds are too light,
When the moon seems to spotlight every mishap
every lamentable mourning.
And that is why your shoes as mine, and mine as yours
though they may not fit, though they may feel
awkward and uncomfortable,
we may come to know the pain of a neighbor
And offer true comfort, the one of compassion
Relief in understanding
and in seeing the sunlight.

Humble Burden

Walking past the wreckage, I watch the smiles die
No one moves to greet me, slowly
The new among the broken, lowly
Bend my head in shame as a child starts to cry.

The same God they pray to, mercy please, or death
The one who left me home and warm there
My health; cruel blessing, I'm so unaware
I could try to pick up pieces but there's really nothing left.

This skin of mine, kin of theirs
eyes like water in dark repose
Strip me of unwelcome wear
I'll risk the chance to know

The safety felt in distance, darling, do you feel better
You wont breathe dark smoke of your brother
You wont see the death of your mother
You'll never know the distance you send your obligated letter.

Taste the air you've always had but never thought to thank
Drink the water as abundant as sand
Walk your roads and your fertile lands
Differences in humanity are found mostly in the bank.