A Simple Act

There is this man on the street,

On my weekday commute, that's how we'd meet.

He'd sit outside from day to night,

Begging people to show some light.

How did he just come to be?

Strangers look but do not see.

He's cold, he's hungry, he has not slept,

His body looks like he has no fight left.

Where is the help for this poor soul?

Where are his family to console?

I ask my Guides on what to do?

How can I help him to get through?

Food, water and something warm,

A daily greeting can calm his storms.

So now I walk, I stop, I say,

Good morning, how are you today?

His name is Pete and says he is okay,

But something to eat would help ease his stay,

A sandwich, a drink for this day.

It is not much, but what can I say?

In that moment his sorrow softens,

It is not something that happens often.

I cannot change all the pain that I see,

But I can offer some generosity.

A simple act, an extended hand,

Humanity, kindness, need not be grand.

If everyone can do the same,

We can ignite compassion's quiet flame.