As I wait for the lights, it starts to rain down.

_Pop_ the umbrella I’ve been lugging around town.

To my left is a woman, clothes ratty and old.

As a strong gust picks up, she is shivering cold.

Bullets of water slam into her face,

My expensive suit remains perfect in place.

As I look at this woman I think of my mother,

Poor, unprepared — I offer some cover.

She smiles at me meekly and tucks herself near,

As we cross the road — not a word shared to hear,

When did I lose sight of what matters the most,

Doing good deeds and not having to boast.

Seeing each other as people not classes,

Not a race to most money, taking note of who passes.

The social ladder pushed down to the floor,

Give to the lesser, when you have some more.

As we go to part ways she says a soft “thanks”,

Limps off down the road with splashes and clanks,

I catch up, hand my brolly, then rush away fast.

Let it rain down on me, cleanse me of my past..