A Tug on the Sleeve

A Tug on the Sleeve

Felt I a tug on my sleeve

I turned my head to see

A tiny palm outstretched

Alms it wanted to receive.

A little girl I saw

She was no more than eight

With a little kid on her other hand

Adding another quarter to her weight.

The tug that had been on my sleeve

Struck deeper to prick my heart

Gave out the coins in my pocket

Contented I had played my part.

But the truth I knew to myself

Two loaves of bread it would buy

And then to get the next meal

The outstretched palm wouldn't shy.

My station arrived (and was I thankful)

I got down and started walking fast

Not sure if I wanted to reach someplace quickly

Or if I just wanted to leave the place I was last.