He Tells Himself

by Darrell Petska

he’ll look up his daughter and explain things
once he gets his head on straight.

he’s not so old he can’t still kick his habit, find work,
and leave the encampments behind.

Jesus is his one true friend.

his coughing fits will lessen now that he smokes
only bummed cigarettes.

the librarian at Central is a little sweet on him.

he could make a fortune writing a book
about the colorful characters he’s come across.

he really ought to get a dog.

the system is too controlling; it saps a guy’s dignity.

he’s not doing too bad, compared to
many far worse off.

every cloud has a silver lining: he’s learned
how to make do with less.

rock bottom is for the hopeless,
and he has no intention of going there.

come Monday, he’ll start putting his life in order.

The Peripatetic Psalmist

by Darrell Petska

Ducks and pigeons are my friends; I shall not be lonely.

They flock to my blanket beside the shining pond.

They lift my spirits; I feed their fervor from the bounty of dumpsters.

How blessed I am, their grateful beaks and bills kissing my hands;
they encircle me, and the police pass by.

Though old and weary, I’m unafraid, for their comfort is unstinting and sure.

Their innocence and joy shall accompany me always
as I dwell in God’s gracious outdoors.