This is a poem that was handed to me by my friend Patrick. We met him
at our 9th Street Cafe that we host every Friday morning. It's a cafe
we set up on the street as a way to build relationships with the people
that live there. Through this time and getting reconnected at church, Patrick has rediscovered his faith and has been a
wonderful addition to our cafe community. He is quick to sit and listen
to others and offer kind words and comfort to the broken people that
come for a cup of coffee and friendship. He is also very bright and
quite fun to talk politics, religion and culture with. I have re-posted
his beautiful and challenging poem describing life on 9th Street with his gracious permission. -Chris
A Man Apart
When the darkness gathers
And I forget my name
When all my dreams are hollow
And love's a distant thing
With empty soul and pockets
I'm ashamed to meet your eyes
I've lost the skill for living
But I'm too afraid to die
I can't even name that drooling thing
That mocks my broken heart
I don't know how to find the Word
I am a man apart
Youth With A Mission, Modesto
