Homeless/Lydia Andersen

Waking up is the hardest part of my day
The sun shines too bright for my brooding eyes 
The cold air whips through the holes of my tent 
As the wind stings my cracked skin 

Sounds of people laughing and talking 
Talking too loud 
Everyone seems so happy
So lucky 
Not I 

I climb out and take my usual spot on a bench by the water
Its cold and hard 
Almost how people think of me as they pass by 

People think they can help me with a simple quarter 
Sometimes even a dollar 
Leaves them feeling like a hero for the rest of the day

Don’t they know 
I need more than that 

Shelter for my bones
Food for my body
Healthcare for my sickness 
Family for my company 
Transportation for my travels 
Hygiene for my well being
Compassion for my soul 

Get a job they say
If only it were that easy 

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