In the city that faith built
life kneels in bent supplication
then sometimes it crawls
along dim alleys
and treacherous roads
where the disenfranchised gather
blessed are the poor….
the concept of greatness
way beyond their grasp.
They grasp instead
for basic air
for stark survival
hoping to hang on
beyond doors
of unpaid bills
bare cupboards
hot houses of discomfort
for you will always have
the poor with you.
They walk unsteadily
the cracked paths that grace forgot
in the city that faith built.
This is truly good – thanks!
Thanks so much, Sha’Tara….that means a lot to me 🙂
Sad…
Yes it is…
i applaud you for writing on this topic. so many of us lead fairly comfortable lives, and it is too easy to forget that we are the exceptionally lucky ones. also, i like the sounds and insight expressed in this line: “the cracked paths that grace forgot.”
Yes indeed, that is a stunning line…
Thank you. I agree that many of us do not fully realize the plight that some people must experience daily. I have been working in a subsidized housing unit for disabled, handicap and elderly citizens who live on very limited means. They have been so nice, gracious and complimentary to me in spite of their adverse daily conditions. Amazing, precious people. I appreciate your lovely compliment.
Thanks for letting us know of your involvement, L T. And you are right.
no wonder you have such insight. i admire you for what you do, an important job helping folks who badly need the help, and you’re not getting rich doing it, that’s for sure. i wonder what other poems might be prompted by your experiences.
It is important to help these folks. I’m actually only helping out in the summer, the remaining portion of the year I’m a substitute teacher. The kids give some good material too, a lighter variety 🙂