the bench

I sit on my bench and watch them go by,
The people around who often wave, “hi”

They go by in cars or walk up the road
I spend quiet time in quiet time mode

When time passes slowly I have a long day
And hope for a friend to pass time away

School children laugh in groups as they pass,
But their cheery smiles go by much too fast.

Squirrels wait for crackers as I clear the wrap
Birds start their chirping when I long to nap

My bench is so old but it feels just like new
The place that it sits affords the best view.

The shade in the summer is in the right place
With sun in the winter to warm up my face

I take a good book or paper to write
For days when no people are readily in sight

When bench time is done, I gather my things
Return to my house, a renewed voice that sings!