On the street
lighted with neon signs
 advertising
beer, books, art,
and women
I see them
Shrouded with smiles,
blond hair
or dogs
Walking from shop to shop
Alone
But as if a friend
 were close by
Buying flowers
or cds
They drop their change
onto the counter
and wonder what movie
it will be tonight
to get them through
A nod as they  make their way
silently
to the exit
Careful not to touch
or meet the eyes
of those passing
On the street
lighted with neon signs
advertising
beer, books, art,
and men
I see him
Alone
Smiling
as he drops
a flower into the pond