Bleary eyed passengers boarded a 3am bus
Smiling, as some passed out buttons and treats.
By half-past six, the carrier greeted dozens more at a highway rest stop.
Together we drove south, through the morning fog.
Bus drivers helped navigate the parking lot labyrinth.
Multi-generational volunteers pointed the way.
Martin Luther King, Jr.’s words lined front yards, rainbows draped from poles and Stevie Wonder blared from a window
As seniors, families and pets came outside to wave “hello.”
One neighbor gave out water bottles.
A guest thanked national guardsmen with a handshake and a candy bar.
When a commuter stopped at a light and called, “I’m with you in spirit!”
Strangers shouted back, “We’re here for you!”
Schools and places of worship opened doors offering coffee, bathrooms and a place to rest.
Faded chalk drawings left by little ones brightened the park’s cement:
Hearts, “kindness” and “love.”
Congressional aides bore witness from the balcony.
Cutters and cranks steered clear of snaking bathroom lines.
Waves of cheers cued the masses when the stage was nowhere in sight.
“Excuse me.”
“Please.”
“Thank you.”
“No problem.”
A lady shared her box of Krispy Kremes.
A lanky fellow stood at a traffic light’s base to lift those in need of a boost.
A boy climbed the street lamp with his sign held high.
The teen with the spiral curls led droves in “The Star Spangled Banner.”
Savoring each note, we sang to a flying flag.
Ladies held their liberty torches high.
My voice rose above, “Run for office!”
A grandma patted my friend’s back when she leaned over to stretch.
Hoards cleared a path for a man in a wheelchair
And moved aside for an ambulance too.
A napping infant snuggled against his father’s chest.
A pooch nuzzled close to her human.
Husbands showed off pink knitted hats.
Toddlers in strollers never seemed to fuss.
The police officer who answered endless questions suggested a shortcut so we could catch our ride.
The crossing guard who directed crowds that morning, accepted hugs come evening.
The minister who took notice. “You’ve been sitting on our steps a while. Can I help you inside?”
And the millennials who collected metro cards for the local homeless shelter.
Sore feet, hungry bellies and uplifted spirits hustled, shuffled and climbed aboard their bus home.
New friends exchanged photos until the cabin lights dimmed.
This rider, filled with hope and touched by humanity closed her eyes.
E pluribus unum
We the people
America the beautiful
“There is no sound more powerful than the marching feet of a determined people.”
Martin Luther King, Jr.
Pingback: These 5 Quotes Held My Hand in 2017. In 2018, There’s No Letting Go. | Red Said What?
Beautiful, Red! So glad you were able to make this pilgrimage!
LikeLike
Beautiful description of an inspiring, historic, and monumental day. I witnessed much of the same in San Francisco. It looks like we’ll be giving our marching shoes a workout for awhile. It makes me 🙂 being in your good company, Jennifer.
LikeLike
Jan 21st was truly all of those things. It gives me continued hope that you experienced much of the same. And no need to try CrossFit now; looks like we’ll be getting those steps in a different way :-). Sending hugs.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’ve been to a women’s march before and appreciate the universal good will that seems to fill all the spaces around you as you soak in the event. Thanks for sharing all the “Kindnesses” you witnessed on the monumental day…and for passing them along! xo
LikeLike
My pleasure, Darlene. As always, thank you for taking the time to read my posts, respond and share. Enjoy the day! xo
LikeLike