Human Touch Poem by Mervyn Graham

In the bustling bank, with walls of stone,
I stood with Dad, not quite alone.
A question sparked within my mind,
Of modern ways, I was inclined.

'Dad, why not internet banking? Tell me, do,
For all your transactions, it's easier, true! '
His puzzled gaze met mine, sincere,
'Why change what's worked for years, my dear? '

With eyes that held a wisdom deep,
He spoke of bonds that memories keep.
'Not just transactions, ' he softly said,
'But connections forged, in flesh, not zoomed.'

'In this bank, I find my friends,
Amongst these counters, where life blends.
The staff, they know me, I know them well,
This human touch, no machine can spell.'

He spoke of illness, of moments bleak,
And how a kind pal's visit he did speak.
When Mom had stumbled, frail and sore,
A neighbor's care, beyond a store.

'Would screens deliver solace near,
In moments fraught with doubt and fear?
Would Amazon, with all its wares,
Console a heart in silent prayers? '

Technology, a tool, a guide,
But life is lived, with hearts allied.
In person's touch, in laughter shared,
True joy and comfort are declared.

So, let us not forsake the human dance,
Of life's embrace, of circumstance.
For in the bank, or on the street,
It's the personal touch that makes life sweet.

Mervyn Graham (cc 2024)