Parallel Streets

My head against crumpled concrete

Lay under the faded flannel

The frigid skies clung closely

Like a blanket of ice in a cramped corner

Every turn in the night

A battle for relief, as sirens sounded

Cars groaned, others rambled

Why did Louis and Coach pass me by?

I only asked for change

Noses turn to the clouds

A phone call wudda been nice.

Trudging down Crocker Street

Towering buildings magnify my insignificance

Stand in line, chicken stew, canned peaches,

white bread. 

That should last me three days

Golden rays open my eyes

Crisp shirt, silk tie, silver watch

Looking sharp-on my way

Need to get to work-I’m going to be late!

Hell.  Trash scuffed my shoe

Disgust, it’s the beggar again

Thrusting his empty cup of change

Trying to get money for the next fix

Finally, a brimming cup of coffee

Cup full, cup empty

We are given what we need

Some praise Him from the concrete

Others celebrate His love

From floor twenty-three

The streets are parallel

But taken with different steps

Gracious love softens the concrete

And penetrates the glass

With equal measure