Urban Life (continued)

Egress

I brake at an urban corner.

A disheveled veteran hoists cardboard.

“Veteran.  Need help!”

Further along my journey,

another indigent elevates truth.

“Hard times.  Need a beer!”

At a freeway exit, I slow

for an intersection ahead.

A twenties girl in khakis

approaches our anxious car line.

“Anything helps!” her sign.

I consider my ashtray,
full with parking quarters.
My wallet lumps in my back pocket.
I hold my breathe.

Wish the light would turn.