When in doubt, compassion.
If that fails, add more.

*

Television next door
recites in antiseptic tones
its ponderous inconsequence.

*

My eyes caress
the yellow braille
of newly-sprung forsythia.

*

Flowers, bunched and wilted
in the cold metal vase,
bolted to the base of the headstone.

*

There's nobility in the anger
of my new friend Kat.
Once shelterless, she complains
of those who, comfortably

housed, complain of cold.