Evening Walk

In the dark

we walk, 

my dog and I 

across their quiet lawns

down their streets

around their corners.

In the dark

we see vignettes

in the windows

hear the voices

loud or soft.

In the windows

we see lights flicker

lifted hands, not in praise

hands that raise

against another blow.

In the windows

we see laughter

soft embraces

sleeping children

quiet peace.

On the lawns

men are smoking

holding drinks

talking sports

and children's birthdays.

In the dark,

my dog, we wonder

when we'll be a

loving family

in quiet peace.

Sept. 2012