Believers

A starched-neck minister finishes his sermon with a resounding amen.
Later, at home, in his attic he leafs through a different book.

A bespectacled grade school teacher shakes hands after her conference.
Later, at home, she presses against a full-length mirror aroused, naked and ashamed.

A middle-aged woman wearing too many rings on too chubby fingers sops
up the last of the Alfredo sauce. Later, at home, she cuddles with her cat.

A curly-haired little girl lies awake in a fetal position, clutching teddy.
Later, in her quiet home, her father will snore next to her, teddy thrown against the wall.

A homeless, slender lad stands on a corner looking for a few friends.
Later, much later, in the night he will meet one in the john.

A handsome man finds comedy in all things. Later, after morning exercise, Vivaldi
echoing through his home, his doctor tells him something that brings no smile.

An unemployed immigrant stalks an invisible job. Later, in a one room flat,
he tells his sick mother there is no work and there is no money.

A busy wife passes out protest pamphlets. Later, after her day's march, she rushes
home to make dinner for her husband who takes his naps in the attic.