teetalks

a tired looking elderly man, dressed in colorful classy casual comfort, seems defeated. Blue tape on the back of his hand implying he had a dr’s appointment, a long busy day. A gentle forehead wrinkle seems like a well rehearsed grimace of life’s continued disappointments. Leaning his face into one hand, a familiar resting place his cheek has succumb to the mold, a yawn. Is he in grief? Is he reviewing his shortcomings in life? Is he just a grump? He closes his eyes as he pulls soda from his straw, fully immersed in the cold sweetness of his favorite soda. Returning to a dreary window, tired head rested in palm. Slouched almost to discomfort, maybe years of pain shaped his new form when sitting, slumped. Is he here alone, is he waiting for someone, or longing? Then, from behind me walks towards my new stranger-friend with two plates of food, erupting a gracious smile. A friend to share lunch with. These few minutes between sitting down in what could be his favorite table here, a lifelong glimpse of waiting for human engagement. We both cheerfully gaze at a little girl bouncing on the bench cushions, remembering joy. Smiling at me when we connect stares. No one remains alone.