I saw a man the other day with a knapsack on his back,

worn out shoes, and shabby clothes, and ratty old sock hat.

He was diggin' in a dumpster, the teardrops filled my eyes.

I wanted to say something, but did I have the right to pry?

Mister, can I help you?  Is there something you might need?

Could we share a cup of coffee, and a little bite to eat?

Oh no! I'm just killin' time, then I'll journey on my way.

I'm hikin' to the next town. Don't worry. I'm okay.

I wanted to say Mister, I know how sad you are.

But he wouldn't have believed me, he saw me step from my car.

I started just to tell him there's no way he could have known,

that in the back seat of that car was everything I owned.

But something made me stop, and as that old man walked away.

I remembered that old saying, "You learn something every day."

Although the man had nothing, he'd held on to his pride.

I wonder where he is tonight, and if he's dry and warm?

God, watch out for the homeless, and keep us safe from harm.

Written by M. Lanette Ross

Copyright 1993

Used by permission

              Inspirational Writings