A Moment of Compassion

On the edge where sea meets sand,  

A young soul, lost, in despair’s strong hand,  

He shed his garments, cast away shame,  

While laughter echoed, a cruel, hollow game.  

In the cold embrace of the ocean's swell,  

He sought just warmth, and a moment to dwell,  

Not in ridicule, but in kindness and grace,  

A glimmer of hope in his harsh, bitter place.  

With socks of warmth, I offered my heart,  

As fleece wrapped tight, we played our part,  

Three warm souls, in a world unkind,

We stood by his side, leaving judgment behind.  

He spoke of his journey, of laughter and pain,  

A melody woven through joy and through rain,  

With each word, a bridge built with care,  

Reminding us all of the love we can share.  

From sunrise to sunset, can we be the change?  

In the faces of strangers, let kindness arrange.  

For one step, one action, can set spirits free,  

When we dare to empathise, to truly see.  

So let our hearts whisper in the chill of the night,  

That one act of kindness can spark a new light,  

In a world filled with laughter that cuts like a knife,  

Let us rise, let us stand—together, in life.  

For tomorrow could bring us to similar shores,  

When we might need warmth, and open doors.  

In the dance of compassion, one heart can ignite,  

And together we'll shine, through shadows and light.  

By Maggie Martin - Inspired by Earl John Charlton