Luke Warm Ketchup

The bus stop of inspiration
may be the head's loneliest place
and just like buses after a long wait
thinking differently
can arrive in threes

I gave up on public transport
way back
but driving past a stop
in the pouring rain
my heart still goes out to
those hopefuls
alone on a cold dark road

Now, at least in my city
it seems a shame not to pull over
gesture friendship to a stranger
to pay back times I'd trekked a thousand miles
with only a thumb and a smile
without fear of crime or rape

Today's world must be poorer
when offering a ride to my fellow traveller
contains the threat I could get locked up
It overshadows any good wishes
keeping my foot
firmly off the brake

It's the same dumb vibe
that says
don't stop
by the playground
Keep walking
better not smile
at a stranger's kids

I've never been a fan of prison
but with liberty redefined
it makes the cup we drink from
tarnished
cracked and lonelier
than an empty seat