I expect

self-respect.

When I find

unlike minds,

I wonder

and ponder,

"Will they charge?

There's such pain!"

Paused, I take in the day.

The breeze, the chance of rain,

the seagalls and their ways,

children's joy, not contained

and I am gratified

that I am still alive.

A topless woman

approached me today.

"Can you spare some change?"

She was unafraid.

Placed her on my page.

The simple gesture

of giving heals me.

My perspective changed

since losing my home.

I'm better for it.

Temporary work.

Completely different

from the usual,

but I am grateful.

I arrive early,

do a thorough job

and hope they keep me.

Sincere friendships,

lifelines

during hardships.

Sometimes

my foot may slip.

They’re kind.

Exhaustion set in.

Eyes, barely open,

unfocused, don't see

as the traffic speeds.

Though I felt no pain,

my blood was Red Rain.