I saw that guy again on my walk today
We are at the point when we pass
That a pursed lip smile
Will suffice
Or a nod
When, I wonder, will the relationship progress
To where I have to say hello
I saw that woman with the cart today
Wearing all that she owns (clothes that is)
Tattered coat, even though it’s warm outside
Worn out shoes
On tired feet
When will I feel obliged
To offer…anything
I saw that child with the others today
With matching daycare vests
Tugging dandelions off to the side
With a smile
Only he knows
Why he is
The center of his own attention
I saw that girl with the dog today
We often pass each other
Today I was running
When I passed her she was crying
Only I kept going
Was none of my business I told myself
Though I wonder.
Photo by Leon Stevens
Leon Stevens is an author, composer, guitarist, and an artist with a Bachelor of Music and Education. He published his first book of poetry Lines by Leon: Poems, Prose, and Pictures in January 2020, followed by a book of original classical guitar compositions, Journeys, and a short story collection of science fiction/post-apocalyptic tales called The Knot at the End of the Rope and Other Short Stories.
His current projects include a second collection of poems called, A Wonder of Words, and two novellas based on a short story from The Knot at the End of the Rope. Visit his website at: www.linesbyleon.com
Update: Leon has an additional novella out titled The View from Here, that is available as a paperback and Kindle version. To keep up with any future projects of his, you can visit the Books and Merch page on his website.
To read “Passersby”, a poem by Joy also about strangers walking past, click here.
The Yellow Brick Ave 