old man dandelion
old man dandelion
I think about the day in the park I saw an old man with his jacket stuffed full of dandelions. There must have been fifteen at least bursting out of his right side pocket, more where I couldn’t see. A little collection of starshine. He didn’t have all his wits about him, but he did have a gentle way, moseying on while everyone bustled past. I spared a moment to slow and watch him as he poked his cane over a little chain link fence, pushing around a leaf as if to see underneath it.
I didn’t stop to introduce myself, or marvel at his treasures. I was one of those who had somewhere to be. I don’t remember where that somewhere was now, but I’m sure it was nothing half as worthwhile as speaking to that man.
In my head, I stop and shake his hand, tell him my name. My mind conjures his response through a charming smile that’s missing a few important teeth. I imagine his voice is like an old motor engine. Not just any motor engine, but the engine of our first diesel car, the kind that made every mechanic say, no, this baby will run forever. Invest all that you have to. Even though nothing was working but the engine, they always insisted it was worth it as long as the heart was still pumping. I say, sir, what are you looking for? And he, answering my prayers, says, more dandelions.
I didn’t stop to introduce myself, or marvel at his treasures. I was one of those who had somewhere to be. I don’t remember where that somewhere was now, but I’m sure it was nothing half as worthwhile as speaking to that man.
In my head, I stop and shake his hand, tell him my name. My mind conjures his response through a charming smile that’s missing a few important teeth. I imagine his voice is like an old motor engine. Not just any motor engine, but the engine of our first diesel car, the kind that made every mechanic say, no, this baby will run forever. Invest all that you have to. Even though nothing was working but the engine, they always insisted it was worth it as long as the heart was still pumping. I say, sir, what are you looking for? And he, answering my prayers, says, more dandelions.