by lj frank

the intimacy of a thought 

expressed  

on a thin slice of cardboard

capitalism has no shame

hawkers

of wares

blatant 

physical and electronic shelves

the words of others 

in all sizes 

the pockets of wealth keepers are deep

endless miles of conveyer machines

convenience 

why do words cost 

can another heart express yours 

better

than…

I don’t know the right words

how do we approach a person

once cradled in human arms

now sitting by the roadside 

or a place 

not of their own choice

what is the value of equal

or of a voice 

a word

how much

can be found 

in the human soul

for the price of a greeting card

I’d prefer physical touch

even if it’s just a smile.