Personal Hell.....

Cut-backs, well you know the economic situation. So apparently one of the first things to go in Seattle was open shelters on Sundays. Yeah, lets all support our veterans, blah - blah - blah. Anyone have a clue about how many Vietnam, Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans are living homeless lives? How many veterans commit suicide on a daily basis in the US? Does anyone even care? Sure, you've got that yellow ribbon stuck to your Lexus... geez, what a deal. Thanks, America, I served my country for 24 years and it's come to this. Carry on.

Personal Hell

Darkness falls and the cold comes
creeping frost and slimy socks
that crawl between your toes.
Men sit on slabs of chill concrete
underneath the highway bridge
with one eye out for police.

Seattle’s mayor is cracking down
there’s too many hungry freaks
hanging out in his city now.
Wet winter weather, snow and rain
men lost in the constant gray
it kicks their ass and brain.

Old worn out blankets sopping wet
used garbage bags with holes
can’t chase away the drumming noise
pounding in their souls.
That donated box of apples spoiled
these men can’t live on apples
in ragged jeans and wet sweatshirts
with faded tie-dyed dreams
drawn on rotting clothes.

Disgusting smells float up the river
down the hill beneath the bridge.
Crazy laughter; toilet water.
Coughing fits wrench greasy tears
and one more swig of wine
to chase away the fear.
Don’t annoy our city folk, groaning
and slobbering on graying beards
far from health and home.

Headaches, sticky arm pits itching;
hearts gone missing years ago.
Thoughts of hell, city jail.
Noses running; their voices slurred
as they stay alive with strength,
just hanging tough or else.
Animals notice you growing weak;
pay attention or by next sunrise
you’ll be found deceased.

Sleep with one eye open, the Army
taught you that. Watch your step,
and killing folks on rooftops,
targets without a second thought.
But tomorrow’s bound to be a bitch
in the snow on Seattle streets
with nothing much to eat.
Our shelters are closed on Sundays
city folks can play in peace.