The Visage Of The One Inside Poem by Bryan Norton

I thought I saw, just passing by
Another form, another face
And though I could not tell you why
They disappeared without a trace

Somewhat intrigued by what I saw
I lingered there with great concern
And though I felt my stomach gnaw
I waited for that soul's return

A steady rain was falling fast
When suddenly, to my surprise
The figure from my recent past
Resumed a place before my eyes

Although my clothes were old and torn
My frame of mind was not ashamed
For when I saw that face forlorn
I knew their soul could not be blamed

A chilly wind was blowing hard
But still that person did not budge
Nor leave their spot across the yard
From where they stood to be my judge

I did not run or hide just then
For when I thought what they must think
I felt my soul renew again
By someone standing on the brink

But then a motor car appeared
To catch a curb that swelled with rain
I felt the splash and what I feared
Became the soul who cried in vain

I should have lingered soaking wet
A victim of my foolish pride
But who could stay and not forget
The visage of the one inside.