When my words are read
  by the common man

No higher praise could
  any writer stand

Awards and cheer
  from the seasoned elite

Pale when measured
  against those ‘in the street’

As I’m embraced
  by those ‘salt of the earth’

My spirit lifts,
  and I’m home from my search

Steadfast and loyal,
  their voices repeat

No more could I ask
  —no more could I seek

(Villanova Pennsylvania: Watching the New Hampshire Primary- February 9th, 2016)