Vulnerabilities

To the old man, walking in three step stages,
I can tell it is painful,
But I also see the pride you have.
Independence in your steps.
Nothing hopeless in your face,
As you stop one more time.
You never do set the gallon of milk down,
Carefully cradling it, and then,
Switching hands, and taking three more steps.
Stopping again, looking around,
Rheumy eyes perhaps spotting the colors,
Color in abundance on the autumn trees.
And then, groceries are shifted,
Feet move, gnarled hands grip.
It continues, presumably until
You get home,
And can finally set your load down.