A Day In The City

A DAY IN THE CITY
Today out walking, people watching.
I observed!
Some people slouching, some walking and running and sitting, each with their heads down,
Missing all the abundance that we see around town.
All the smiling faces and flowers, and trees with their blossoms.
The abundance of air, and the colours so awesome.
The short and the fat and the tall and the skinny.
In a world made for fellowship with laughter and spirit.
As I gazed, one walked into the traffic, until a horn changed the course in a second.
Another walking his kids just ignoring their words and their actions.
A mother nursing and missing the coos.
Later in the day on the freeway at 80, I observe a driver watching a movie, paying attention to things other than driving.
Is it against the law to be stupid, I ask myself?
It’s been said great minds discuss big ideas and dreams,
The average talk about the high prices of gasoline and weather and things.
At the lowest levels people discuss other people.
So what was this I was seeing this day?
An almost total lack of expression without actions and speech, just an emoji.
Conversations sent to a friend at your side, without woohooing and smile,
Just fast moving fingers that can’t pause for awhile.
The viewing of a screen.
One word answers, ya and ok, abbreviations ttyl, cya and Kk.
I thought, this is crazy, there is something I’ve missed!
Are we becoming like robots, emotionless stiffs?
But wait, I saw hope out the corner of my eye,
Some kids who were screaming and skylarking nearby.
Yes, I thought, the creator of all things will prevail in this mess.
It is said that he works all things for good, so I need not worry or fret.
Wisdom says, live in the present moment.
My thought was okay!
I need not be stressed, He who sees all will continually bless.
Now for awhile I must keep opening the doors, which sustain me and keep me engaged in this mess.
Yes, there is nothing new under the sun.
Is there?
It’s all been here before, the same things, just different packaging I guess.
By Robert J Verbree