He stood there rather meekly
His life contained in plastic bags
Looking like he needed help
Barefoot and dressed in rags
His body; lean and lifeless
His odor rank and rife
Yet people looked right through him
As they went about their life
He wasn't in the least offended
Smiled at all who past his way
Forgiving of all that ignored him
In what looked like quiet dismay
We all do silly things said he
Feel ashamed and most unclean
But I'm merely a reflection
Of the people that I have seen
I mirror peoples' souls he said
It's them they see not me
If they only found compassion
Then their guilt could be set free
No one is truly perfect
No soul untouched by shame
But yet they think me less deserving
When I'm sent to ease their pain
The master knows that helping others
Makes one feel better about self
So he's sent the likes of me down here
To reach out and offer help
But most people walk on past me
Judge my look and smell as who I am
Filled with deep disgust and repulsion
Not a thought for me their fellow man
If only they could see the light
Look deep into their heart
They'd find the world a better place
Could let their healing start
But they'd rather walk around
In self pity and deep despair
Believing they and I unworthy
That no one out there really cares
But the master sent his angels down
We're here for all to see
I wish they'd find compassion
And look to help the likes of me
I'm sure it's not their fault
But judge not else you be judged
There's still a lot of good contained
Within the likes of smelly us
So reach out your hand in kindness
We're here to ease your pain
You heal by helping others
Don't pass me by again!
(C) Charles Anthony McFaulds
