Thread: Cold Day In March

This week turned cool again after a warm spell above zero. But I didn't wear a coat because
it's a short run to the car. Then another quick jaunt inside the grocery store for supplies.
But when I came out with my cart full, I could see the fog of snow in the mountains and the
wind was vicious. It was only about 3 below zero but the chill was piercing and made it hard to believe it was almost spring.

Throw the stuff in the trunk and start the car and crank the heat, hands over ears that were
already starting to freeze...

Wheel the car around. And there he was. Coming down the middle of the parking lot with his cart
full of everything he owned, sporting a yellow sign with Hungry Please Help written in black felt pen.
And a long-haired orangey dog with a smile on its face, leashed to the cart.

He had old grey sweatpants that barely came to his tattered shoes and they bagged in the wind like
sails. Not much of a coat I could see as my car rolled by. He looked like he just came out of a ditch
where his dog probably gave him heat...and life.

I had to go back, so I reached for my coins and saw an old woman stopping him and reaching out her hand.
I could hear the music of his voice thanking her and wishing her well.

Pulling up beside him, I extended my hand. And he welcomed me with a voice rough full of cheer and warmth. Thanking me. And blessing me for giving. He could've been anywhere between 40 and 70. It was hard
to tell. Most of his teeth were missing, but his smile was good. And his eyes were happy.

He told me he liked my sunglasses. They were real nice.
I wear them to keep the cold away.

It took me back to Sukhumvit and Chatuchak market where the beggars were warm.

^ Yup. Poor old slap has had it rough recently.