The aged Chinese woman walks past our house
Every afternoon,
When the weather is warm.
Her turquoise capri pants and garishly flowered blouse,
Her floppy lime-green hat,
A collision of color,
Thrift shop couture,
Worn,
But serviceable.
I always say hello and smile
And she smiles in return
But never speaks.
Once I called out “Lovely day.”
She smiled.
I suspect she does not speak English.
No matter.
A heartfelt smile
With a slight tip of the head exchanged.
We embrace the gift.
~ Russ Allison Loar
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