Friend

We are sitting alone
sharing a bench,
sharing the environment.

Sharing this moment in time
next to each other,
but worlds apart.

Giving an elderly man a seat
you move closer to me.
Can I let you inside my comfort zone?

We don't know each other
but I sense your lonlieness.
The man passes us both an apple.

The sharing of the fruit
forms an invisible bond of experience.
We smile acknowledging the event.

Your smile is that of a friend.
Can I call you that?
Friend.

Will your kindness
let me believe that we are
friends.

Or will your honesty
deny me the status I crave,
that of friend.

Can we change this time, this moment?
Can I talk to you,
confide in you my worries?

Surrounded by noise,
can you listen?
Can you hear without judging?

The spring breeze kisses our cheeks,
can you feel it?
Can you understand my need?

Surrounded by people and noise
I remain silent, wondering.
Do you share my need for a friend?

You put out your hand.
I stare at it uncomprehending.
Did I speak? Did my need find voice?

Ah! The apple core.
I place it in your hand embarassed.
You smile and speak.

The old man takes the cores
and shuffles away.
We share the moment by talking.