Grey Beneath Sparkling Trees by James Morehead

Grey Beneath Sparkling Trees

by James Morehead

on a crisp night
                         near christmas
my arms burdened by presents
my wallet drained
i search for a money machine
and find one across the street

but am unable to move

for underneath
the hummming terminal
a grey man
small
bundled thick in olive coats
torn blankets
staring
at passersby
and slowly moving his lips

taking a step across the street
and trying not to notice
i realize his focus
is now on me
and gradually understand his words

"please..."
                 "...sir"
"bread..."
"please sir may i have some money for bread please sir may i have some money for bread"

words spoken carefully
repeated
so soft few would notice
the few above him
taking money
that isn't for him

but more painful than the stare
and whispered plea
is the guilt
as i walk away
                       wallet full
assuring myself
that it isn't my fault

Next in Pony Ride in the Sky