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I was driving my car
in 95 degree weather
when I stopped  for a light
.
Turning my head slightly to the left
I saw a man with white hair
 sitting on a guardrail. resting
 under the shade of a tree.

Once somebody's son I thought.

His arm had a white cast from wrist to elbow
His leg was encased in a blue boot from ankle to knee.
A small red suitcase lay at his feet.

His face was tired and worn
I wished I could have helped him.

Once a boy of 16 came through criminal court
He wore an orange jumpsuit.


His face was tired and worn
I wished I could have helped him.

Now he sits at my dinner table.

and I call him Son.