The Street Boy

He stands shivering amid the traffic and pollution

in the pouring rain,

His eyes tell it all, of his confusion,

hope and pain.

As the little street boy stands and stares

Is he wondering what the evening has in store,

or is he wondering why he is out on the street,

Just wishing for a few rupiah more.

He watches as the cars drive on

at the change of the traffic light,

Is it wrong to give to this boy

in the middle of the night?

"Don't encourage beggars"

it is often said,

when surely this little street boy

should be protected warm in his bed.

Suddenly a car slows down,

with the window open just enough

A crumpled note is thrown

upon the ground

The street boy rushes to pick it up.

It is 500 rupiah,

His face lights up and he smiles with joy

Is this the smile of sadness and hope?

By A. Ritchie