On a long walk home
from the mechanic shop,
I stopped and paused in awe.
A pristine park, lush, green,
lay to my right, completely inviting
except the black iron fence
and imposing gate.
Beyond the bars were tables and grass,
a play structure waiting to be filled.
No kids laughed, no parents chatted,
the place was empty.
I say down to rest,
back against the bars,
grabbed my thermos and poured
a steaming cup of tea,
my eyes scanning the streets.