THANK YOU

[Soul2verse]

Brother, I don't know who you are or what your name is.

All I know is that I was sitting on the curb with my feet in the street between two parked cars.
Tears clouded my eyes but I saw you as you approached with some Sister by your side.
At that moment I wished I was invisible and I wished that I could hide.
You see, I was sitting on the ground depressed and full of despair.
I was overburdened with this perpetual pain that I had carried deep inside.
You came closer walking erect with pride and grace in your stride.
I looked at the ground hoping you wouldn't see my eyes.
I tried to act as if everything was all right and again I told myself a lie.

You opened the door for the Sister and gently helped her get in then closed the door behind her.
I could feel your eyes upon me but I still kept looking down as you got in the car and started it up.
You sat there for a minute and then turned the engine off.
You got out your car and approached me and with my heart full of shame and hurt I stood up to face you.
I reluctantly looked into your eyes and you greeted me with a smile as you offered me your hand.
We embraced in a brotherly handshake and your grip was strong and firm.
You asked me if I was okay and I answered you with a yes.
You asked me if I knew God and I answered you with a yes.
You asked me if I had a church home and I lied to you as I gave you the name of my mother's church.

You see I had no place to fellowship I was nomadic and always on the roam.
I was existing in a place isolated and so very far away from home.
You asked me if you could pray for me and I welcomed you with a yes.
You held my hands and prayed to God offering love, praise and worship asking that I be blessed.
Then you hugged me as those tears streamed down our eyes.
You told me to keep my head up and to walk in strength and pride.
You told me that you love me before you let me go.
You then got in your car and smiled at me before you drove away.

Brother, you stopped by and picked me up from that moment of despair.
You saw me in the gutter but did not leave me there.
You walked away and I never saw you again.
You left with me the peace that ruled you and became an eternal friend.
You touched my strength, faith, and hope so that I could continue my journey again.
What you gave to me I'll give to others until this life shall end.
Moments, days, and years have gone by since I saw your face.
Our spirit intertwined and I can always feel your embrace.
You are your Brother's Keeper.

©Gregory Roberson 2008