Sitting before me
I measure his scars and record the beatings
He is broken
Not just his teeth and back, his will is shattered
I ask his plans should he be granted asylum
He has none
My notes reveal he was once an accomplished chef in a fine restaurant
Before his forced exile
I reveal my favorite activity: preparing a feast for friends and family
Asked his menu, he responds: You would not be familiar with dishes I served
I press on, You have a gift–to delight people with your cooking
You can do that still, for acquaintances and strangers…when you recover
When you do, please share with me your secret spices
For a brief moment, raising his head
he offers a tentative nod
6 thoughts on “Common Cause”
Dear Kendra,
What a lovely surprise to find your compelling poem, as I was searching this evening for places to submit my own work! This is your long-lost walking buddy. Over the years I have thought of you and wondered how you and your family are. It would be delightful to reconnect.
Thank you for your service to these courageous souls.
Very moving and inspirational. Thank you for the work you do.
Delicately moving. Thank you
I wish you multiple blessings for the important work you do. Beautiful poem.
Thank you for the work you do and for your poetic description of how an interaction can bring a glimmer of hope.