I have nowhere to go when the snow starts to fall
So I huddle in the corner, in the places you will not go
Like a shadow in a mirror, a wisp of smoke in the rain
You turn your head and pretend not to see me,
I am your neighbor, and I am in need.
My toothless grin and outstretched hand.
I meet you on the corners, and at the store fronts
Like a dog barking after dark, a phone ringing during dinner
You see me as only another annoyance in your life
I am your neighbor, and I am in need.
I have no bread to give to my children
So I sell myself, all I have left, so they can eat
Like uncombed hair, a stain on a shirt
You will not be seen with me, people might get the wrong idea
I am your neighbor and I am in need.
I am only seventeen and see no hope for the future
So I put a needle in my arm to find a little pleasure
Like a dish in the sink, a flower bed in need of tending
You are too busy to help me with my pain before it kills me
I am your neighbor, and I am in need.
Do you give any thought to the Lord’ words?
What you do not do for the least of Mine…
Give to all those who ask…
He who is without sin…
They shall know you belong to Me by your love…
We are your neighbors, and we are in need!
Photo by Ante Gudelj on Unsplash