Judgmental

The sign instructed cyclists to dismount –
the artery of the street disrupted
viscera exposed.
A shortcut – suburbs less visited,
euphemismsville –
underprivileged
lower socio economic
first home area.
Project housing –
Identi cube clapboard
anorexic landscape, reluctant lawns.

Seen better days?
It was car almost in name only
forlorn,
the driver, thin and threadbare.
Grace of God wondered if she’d eaten breakfast
her child dressed in discount clothing,
but clean and well cared for –
reluctant : three or four-year- old tantrum refusal.
The woman explained it was too hot to remain in the car,
she was quiet and patient –
a hostage negotiator,
the big picture : the future.
No angry words, threats or arm grabbing,
she talked her daughter out … and around.
I mounted my bike – stereotypes felt chastened, very chastened.