26

She sat at the table next to me
With a cafeteria tray full of Hope

She sat and stared in silence
I asked if I could help

Yes, she said, this Hope thing
I’ve forgotten how it’s eaten

So I guided a spoon of Hope to her mouth
And watched as she swallowed, free

My thanks, she said, but it’s not to my taste
I’ll get something that’s more my speed

So she waited alone
Back through the line
For a heaping bowlful of Fear