A Simple Request From A Weary Man

I came to what could be called a traveler

And far be it for I to diminish a man’s dreams

He called to me

And I saw a glimmer in his tired rheumy eyes

Of a life of harsh visions

His skin and clothes dirty

He called to me, this man

And said:

“I hope you get AIDS and DIE”

Far be it for me to diminish a man’s wishes either

But my laughter only caused him to mock me

A furious cackle issued from his diseased

And travelled throat

I could only assume he meant it in all sincerity

And still do

Though I’ve yet to oblige him