Oddly enough, this
isn’t the first time that I had bought the old man a cup of coffee -- mix
half hot water, half coffee, cream, no sugar. He's always dressed the
same - gray pants, plaid shirt, a worn over coat and scuffed shoes, never
jewelry. I see others pass by the old man each morning never paying him
any mind; why don't they say hello, why not ask what he might need? As I walk
pass I say good morning and speak his first name, he smiles. I ask if he's had
his morning coffee, he replies not yet, and I say I'll be right back. As
we stand outside drinking our coffee he speaks only of the weather even when I
attempt to change the conversation. Before I leave I ask "can I buy you
lunch", he accepts and I pass him money but not to embarrass him. Saying
have a good day to one another I walk away and wonder how had a street corner
become his home, where is his family, who loves this man, what happen?
I'll see John tomorrow in the AM; large coffee filled half with hot
water, cream, no sugar – forecast is rain.
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