Change

Change

 

 

options in the street

windfall avenue

picks up the slack

in his backpack

as his silent dog walks beside him

his sign pleads for help

his eyes no longer anticipate

an offering,

surprised by the car stopping

 

he puts on the brakes 

of his frown

and withering, almost falling down

 

he smiles at the quarters flashed

pockets his pride

 

prays for his options

to change.

 

 

erin-cilberto

122/20/21

Reviews

[Patricia]

This is perfect! I have been homeless so this means a lot to me. There is a man that my husband and I always stop to give money to and dog food for his cute dog. He is very kind and appreciative but there are so many now, more than I have ever seen even when I lived out by Chicago in the city. There are so many places that could be made into shelters and yet no new places and the existing ones are full. We, as people, could do so much more, but if there is no money in it for them then they won’t. People who don’t have it try to help the most and the people with the most don’t. Sadness!

[jacob erin-cilberto]

Yes, the poorest help others, the rich couldn't give a damn. you have such understanding.
j.

[Perdition]

Having spent a few years of my youth out on the streets I met a collection of characters that were quite happy being right where they were, but these times have overrun us as all times will and with so many street signs and parking lot pleaders I wonder. Sometimes I'm amazed that they actually have smartphones as I didn't but I also never had to beg so ..great souls out there and great write in here J. I do know what it is to "Pocket my pride". I always hoped to return someday as it's a fascinating way but exhausting to find places to sleep. Not so much anymore. Thanks for the memories!

[jacob erin-cilberto]

thank you for your insightful and understanding review of this poem, Perdition.
j.

[Lorry]

That last line will be on so many people's mind about now, when we all need a little more belief that change Can be good, despite the past years habit of always being hopes dashed.
But then again, isn't this the time of year we should be looking forward to change and putting brakes on so many, many frowns?
Ps... Breaking news... I wonder if Californians are glad of their recent change to double-brr mode.
Snow in Cali? I can't wait for our change to hit tropical Scotland this summer too 😊

[jacob erin-cilberto]

California Snow? Darryl Hammond must come out with a new song...he is the one who sang "it never rains in southern California"

[Lorry]

I hear that the term "What are winter clothes?" is trending there now. Number 2 trending is "has hell frozen over?" 😊

[red93]

Really excellent Work JE-C. 'Think twice / It's just another day for you and me in Paradise...'

[jacob erin-cilberto]

Thank you for your kind comment, Tony,
j.

[Chris Shaw]

On the streets at this time of year must be hell. It is so cold and not knowing where your next meal is coming from adds to the misery. People deserve compassion. Any one of us could end up losing the roof over our heads. Reach out and be kind says I. Powerful write J.

Chris

[jacob erin-cilberto]

almost been there and done that...spent 20 years one paycheck away from the streets...not a good feeling...
thank you, Chris,
j.

[Lisasview]

Oh goodness..another marvellous poem.. Now I am reading all of yours!!
Having lived in Hollywood, California much of my life I know that man with the sign..
The play on words..CHANGE is great..
Brakes of his frown..and on and own..
Thank you..

[jacob erin-cilberto]

thank you for your kind review, Lisa,
j.

[Ted Kniffen]

There are far too many wandering the streets of Windsor looking for a little help. There are shelters and agencies that assist, but I think they need to be out there for some reason ... they can't all be in need of institutionalization ... maybe they feel safer on their own.

I've been told to walk away ... don't get involved, but our family needed help when I was a lad and it was there when needed.

Whatever change I have ... if even a little is handed over without a qualm that they may buy drugs.
Hunger is a powerful antidote.

Well said j.
Take care my friend ... here's hoping for a saner New Year.

[jacob erin-cilberto]

thank you for your understanding words, Ted, and Happy New Year to you, as well.
j.

[John the Baptist]

To be homeless and jobless is bad at any time. To be homeless and jobless in the winter during a pandemic is one of the times, as Tom Paine said, "that try men's souls."

[jacob erin-cilberto]

I have been a paycheck away from that many times...scary scenario for those who are in that state.read moreI have been a paycheck away from that many times...scary scenario for those who are in that state.
thank you, John,
j.

[Betty Hermelee]

It’s pitiful and I see them all the time , and wonder does the dog get to eat?I guess banana peels and such….yes it very obvious how the face changes from sorrow to glee when these flashy quarters appear…..a life we’ve gotten used to. Thanks for sharing J.
Best
B.

[jacob erin-cilberto]

I always wonder about the dogs too...but they seem to be pretty healthy, hearty and heavy.
guess it is feed them first.
Thank you, Betty,
j.

[Betty Hermelee]

You're very welcome J!

[Fran Marie]

That last glimmer of
hope that change may come
his way with a few coins of
change...nicely penned

[jacob erin-cilberto]

thank you, Fran,
j.