Lifeless eyes scan the darkening sky
Watching protective, migrating sparrows fly
Faded coat, faded skin, faded spirit descry
Alone and battered, happiness denied.

His desperate, defeated sighs cloud the air
Reflecting his unchangeable despair
His sadness onto his soul impair
His existence, onto his indigence ensnared.

The windows are ablaze with light and gaiety











































Family gathered in unspoiled festivity
In happiness, in laughter, in comfort so free
But void of his anxiety, his gloom, his abysmal drudgery.

A slow shuffle, shoes threadbare and tar
His destination a mystery, no place his north star
And with the joy of the richer radiating from afar
Head bowed, eyes dull, feet forward-- his hopes forever marred.