I Hurt, I am Ill, I am Lonely

Today is my time to become a cripple.  

At least I will attempt to act the part

so that I can better understand the problems

that such a one faces.

Yesterday I was blind.

The day before I was poor and cold

with no one to help me find my way

and with no home to shelter me.

And before that I was sick

with no money to see a doctor.  

I suffered along with many of similar kind

who live full life as my one day.

I have learned that it is not easy

to live as a cripple,

as a blind one seeking help,

or to find a coat in the gutters of the city.

I have learned that being ill

is for those of means

because the poor have no place to go

nor any money with which to pay.

I have learned that few see the ill

as they lie upon the street,

and fewer still are willing to acknowledge

the tragedy that lies amongst us.

I have hurt for a day

and from this I have learned.

But for many, their day of pain

never ends, never ends, never ends.

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And this is not as it should be.  q