Shopping Carts Of Hope And Dreams Poem by louis rams

(2/24/13)

Their entire world is being pushed around in a shopping cart
From the clothes they wear to the bed in which to sleep
To the bag of popcorn which they eat.

This is their shopping cart of failed hopes and dreams
That at one time in their lives they did not see.
They are classified as nomads, gypsies, and vagabonds and such
And their lives no one would touch.

We cannot even imagine the thoughts in their heads
As they lay down on their cardboard beds.
Having to face the cold snowy days and nights
Without a blanket or warmth in sight.

The lucky ones may find some space
At the homeless shelter
Salvation Army or a Christian place.

The others have to find hallways and alleyways away from the wind
So that the cold air will not get in.
Bundled up with every piece of clothing that they could find
And their shoes wrapped up with cloth and twine.
Living in the streets and being homeless
There is only one key
Keep your hands and feet as warm as can be.

© L. RAMS