Why Can'T You See? Poem by G00dy2 Shoes

Why can't you see past the rags; beneath the grime and dirt?
Why can't you see this man is broken; from too much pain & hurt?
Homeless cold and sad; he shivers on an empty bench;
the park is void of children playing; but has a poor man's stench.

Shuffling along the alley; seeking shelter from the storm,
he's all alone & soaking wet; just hoping to get warm.
When you look upon this man can you feel his shame?
Do you know his heart is dying and doesn't know his name?

Can you see past the rags beneath the grime & dirt?
When you see his matted hair do you see how much he hurts?
Homeless cold and sad; he shivers on an empty bench,
the park is void of children playing; but has a poor man's stench.

The face looks familiar; those mannerisms you know.
Oh my God, it is really? Yep, it's skinny little Joe.
Afraid to get any closer; wondering what to say,
to the boy & the man with whom you use to play.

It's been nearly 20 years since we were kids in school
I had heard that Joe got married; he had followed all the rules,
The crash made all the papers; they were hit broadside,
when someone ran a light; seven people died.

He rushed across town knowing he had run late,
and he'd forgotten to call his wife, his mate.
The house was dark; her car wasn't there...
she didn't leave a note, was she having an affair?

He downed some whiskey; then sat in his chair
picked up the paper and said a small prayer.
He turned on the news; there'd been a horrible crash;
that left no survivors only rubble & ash.

He got the chills; when she didn't answer her cell,
he prayed to God; that they'd both be well.
My friend lost his family; then tried to take his own life,
because he wanted to be with his daughter and wife.

Why can't you see past the rags; beneath the grime and dirt?
Why can't you see this man is broken; from too much pain & hurt?
Homeless cold and sad; he shivers on an empty bench;
the park is void of children playing; but has a poor man's stench.