THE BAGLADY’S SHADOW
By Fred McIlmoyle, Co. Down, Northern Ireland
Two brown carrier bags – that`s all she had
One bore the remnants of yesterday`s dreams,
The other a store of today`s necessities.
I thought it sad, and watched a while.
She turned and caught my eye.
Trapped ! I tried to smile – to comprehend
What tortuous path had led her here
Where were those who should be near
To ease her anguished years ?
She shuffled towards me,
Tattered trainers, bandage bound,
Grasped my hand in both of hers.
Instinctively I stiffened,
Then unwound and listened,
Captured by her words:
“Don`t grieve for what you think you see,
This is just a shadow of the girl I used to be.
Look into my eyes and see reflected there
A past that dulls the pain through days of care”