MAN by Denise Vasquez

For over 30 years, Denise Vasquez has been writing poetry, monologues, short plays, songs and more, about love, life and the pursuit of happiness. Here's a poem Denise wrote while riding the subway, when she lived in New York City.

MAN by Denise Vasquez 

A MAN sleeps
In the subway car
Sitting in an awkward position
I wonder does he have a family
What has led him to his condition
One man stares 
Others ignore
Once he was a man like you before
Written on their face
Expression of disgrace
I see a member of our Human Race
I don't see a color, sex, religion or a name
I see society
I feel shame