Chasing the Spirit

Wrapped inside an avenue

of ringing bells and colourful

decorations a homeless

man crosses his heart in pain

heels worn each step groaning

across another block

donated bags of clothing

heavy hunger gnawing as he

joins the flood of Christmas joy
pretends he's part of the

excitement shoes slapping

heart pounding bags

lighter with new confidence.

(c) 2018 Richard L. Provencher