Change

Dirty and disheveled

No shoes on his feet

Tired and famished

No food to eat

His pockets empty

His last penny spent

All that remains

A hole and some lint

All he owns in a basket

A box for a bed

A story written in a notebook

This is what it read:

"I was sixteen when I left

Nearly twenty two when I returned

My left arm completely gone

My right severely burned

I wasn't just a boy

I was so much more

I was a soldier

An asset to a war

I gave my all

I nearly gave my life

I survived the struggle

Now I struggle to survive

I was dealt a bad hand

The system had four aces

I went all in

And came out among the faceless faces"

As I finished reading

I thought it somewhat strange

For all that I owe this man

Why does he only ask for change?

Reviews

[Trace]

It is so sad that so many return vets and hero's end up on the street.
your last two lines were very powerful.

My older brother served in the Marines during Vietnam and I served in the army during a short period of peace this country has seen.

I thank you for this wonderful, thought provoking poem.
Well done.

Trace

[John Alexander McFadyen]

Wow! Such a thought provoking and hard hitting observation that hangs out to dry the politicians who let kids risk their lives but abandon them when it suits them.

[Coyote Poetry]

I heard. 40% of homeless were Soldiers. Many from the Vietnam war. The poem tells a true story. War can screw-up a mind. Some men can't heal from the action of war and bad deeds. Thank you for sharing the outstanding poetry.
Coyote

[A. H. Pinley]

Thank you for exposing your heart in this writing.

[KurKota]

Powerfull ! Very thought provoking. I think most people confront these situations in their lifes, of having to stare the fact of homelessness in the face and probably the only thought that goes through the mind is..... thank god it isn't me, or ..lazy doff ! I have gotten to know a couple of them and their stories also, and yes,.....your very poignant thought ...why are they only asking for change ? Powerful statement !

[Marc Marlon Villaflor]

"Very sad, but honest, current and captivating poem." I have a big respect for those soldiers who fight for the country. I am saddened to know, if... in reality they are neglected. Beautiful piece! thanks for sharing.

[larryb]

Very interesting write..you are spot on with this..so many KIDS are sent away to war and no kid should be expected to see... hear.. and smell the horror's of death at that age

[Elvis Gilley]

Maybe the most truthful poems about human nature that I have ever read. Love it the style is great the vision you paint is clear. Love the word choices. Great read. Touched my heart with its truth and honesty.

[jacob erin-cilberto]

the ending is perfect...and this is such a sad truth, so many veterans are among the street people, simply abandoned...

this moved me greatly.

jacob

[Phantom Heart]

"And came out among the faceless faces"
This line stood out for me the most.
Great poem, thanks for sharing.

[redflutterby]

Perfect and precise telling of the unfortunate plight of so many soldiers. My father is a Vietnam vet and suffers from manic depression...he could have easily been this man. Thank you for writing this with such compassionate beauty.