I don't mean to pat myself
On the back
But...

I am the sort of person
To hold up a shopping trip
When I spot a small child
By themselves

Which I know is
Morally correct.
However

I am also the sort of person
To pull over the car
When I see a dog by themselves

I insist.
I carry a leash for a purpose.

I can't help it.
I wish I could.
Well...

No. I don't.
I know it would make me easier
But I can't
And at the same time, I won't.

My mother always told me
Being kind is free
And despite the fact that she might be outdated
I am evidence of that fact.

I will stop to help
Innocence
Helpless

I don't want a monetary reward
I just want them to be safe and happy.
So I will stop and watch and ponder
I will step in if I absolutely must.

I can't help it.

Well, technically I could.
I just won't.
Kindness is free.

My mother said so
And she's almost always right
In matters of the heart.

She would wish the same
From a by-stander
Near me.