Glimpse

Steal however many breaths

you need to steal from this sidewalk.

Take with your restless steps

however many burning suns in your midday sky,

however much dust on this rainless street.

Soak your capless head and worn-out shirt

with however many beads of sweat you need to perspire

I won't bother measuring

How many inches left there is of your rubber sole

or counting how many packs of cigarettes

in your wooden box you need to get sold

Simply tell me, before a glimpse passes us by:

Life has treated you well

And I will erase these many scenes

that I have played in my silent mind

of your broken memories and thoughts and hopes,
And I will ride my fancy bike
the only one mile it needs to take

And I will know

that life is worth striving for.