Attempting To Do It Respectfully Poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar

I perceive what I witness,
As a fact of urban life.
And those living within the inner cities,
Reflecting a reality of that which I see.

'Why are you so negative?
Can't you see their cups as half full.
And not being half empty? '

Which cups?
The ones thrown on the ground?
Or the ones the panhandlers carry,
Pretending their afflictions are temporary.

'Well...
At least several are attempting to do it,
Respectfully.'