FOR RUDI

It's Friday night at Waterloo
Rush hour crowds hurry through.
Busy commuters all heading home
As a crazy figure stands alone.

They've got no time to waste on him
No time to show they care.
Not many look outside themselves
No loose change to spare.

All afraid to notice
As they're dashing for their trains
And they look away, if their eyes lock his
They don't wanna feel his pain.

A striking face, once beautiful
Though aged beyond his years.
Longish hair, a tobacco grey
Wide eyes look close to tears.

He lost his teeth through medication
That left a sunken face.
A brave soul in this incarnation
Bestowed with states of grace.

As I walk by, I catch his eye
And he calls out to me by name.
It's my brother! I've not seen a while
Though this thought fills me with shame.

Hey Dude, how ya doing mate?
It's been ages since we've met.
Last time we had a silly row
And that's something I regret.

I love you sis, just let it go
You're not held in any debt.
And know I'd long forgiven you
So it's time that you forget.

But as we stand there chatting
People look on in disgust.
And a silent voice inside me screams
Your looks are so injust!

You're not lucky enough to know this man
The same way that I do.
My brother's such a gentle soul
He'll do no harm to you.

You know they say true beauty
Is hidden beneath the skin
It's not what lies outside a man
But what comes from the heart within.

To you he may look crazy
But that's just stuff inside of you.
Don't you see the angel with me
here at Waterloo?
So, take your judgements home with you...
And sadly people do.

I saw him just once after that
But I'm glad those things were said.
'Cause the next time that I heard his name
They told me he was dead.

They say that time's a healer
But as the weeks and months go by.
As it sinks in, I miss him more
And some days I still cry.

So next time you're at a station
Or some other busy public place.
Dare to look and afford a smile
To a sad or tortured face.

And remember..
The junkies and the homeless ones
And those that look a little wild
Are all part of humanity
And someones brother, uncle....child.

Dude..if you can hear me?
Through my heart you shall live on.
That way you're always here with me
That way you're never gone.

And now that you're pure spirit
Pray peace be all of you.
An angel standing at Gods' side....
But one missing from Waterloo.

*************************************

God bless you Rudi...rest in peace Bro.
Your loving sister..

Ruby Shoo