In the Shade

Walking across a small green park
I approached an invalid
Sitting in a motorized wheel chair
In the shade of a Japanese Maple tree.

I asked if he needed assistance.
Able to speak, but with control
Only of his eyes, finger and mouth
He assured me he was OK, but could use some water.

I held up my empty hands and replied “sorry”.
I did not mention I lived just off the edge of the park
And could get him some water
With little difficulty.

Rose, my black mutt led
As we crossed the street
And entered my house.
I did not see the wheel chaired guy again.

With bottles of water in the frig
It would have been easy, so easy,
To walk back to the park.
I thought then, and think now --why?