We seek attention

We seek attention

We seek attention, even the accidental touch of someone's hand.

A look we picked up passing by, makes us wonder why.

The smile we bring to a stranger's face.

Sparrows in the square waiting for us to put a hand in our pocket.

A street dog that follows us in the rhythm of our steps.

In the music score section of the steps,

that dog knows where to pause, and when to continue.

In a café, where they know we don't like to be immediately bombarded with an offer.

We sit staring at our chilled coffee.

The joy of recognition regarding the market seller.

On the local bus, a child starts to give you a seat.

When we pay for the newspaper, the salesman runs after us.

You forgot the newspaper!

Hello, people we don't know who they are, so we nod.

We only know everything about them when they have already moved on.

We are looking for attention, a human word in this silent world.

To ring in our ears, long and gently to remind us.

That we are still here!