We had gotten up early, my daughter and I
we hurried to the stores, my how time does fly.

I had worked all week, I needed a break
a trip to the mall, that's all it would take.

We shopped and looked, till time to eat
we loved McDonald's, that was always our treat.

It was kind of a ritual, early morning and noon
just the two of us shopping, then stopping for food.

I gave in my order, she gave in hers too
we stepped back and waited, what else could we do.

The place was all crowded, folks everywhere
the bustle of Christmas was filling the air.

We gathered our burgers, our cokes and our fries
I wanted some coffee, it was cold outside.

I went to the counter to get a hot brew
I planned to enjoy my daughter and my food.

When all of a sudden, from the corner of my eye
I saw an old man who was sitting close by.

His clothes were old, his beard was long
I knew in an instant he had no home.

He sat there in silence, just rubbing his hands
I was drawn to him, I didn't understand.

I started to eat, then started to cry
I couldn't put the old gentleman out of my mind.

I looked at my daughter, she too had a tear
what we had to do was now so clear.

I walked to the counter and inquired of the girl
about the little man, sitting in his own little world.

She said she had watched him count out his change
what she said next filled my heart with pain.

He ordered a cup of something hot
laid down twenty-five cents, said that's all I've got.

He had to choose between eating or being warm
so he drank his coffee in a booth all alone.

I gave her some money, I said feed him well
but I made her promise not to ever tell.

She said with a smile, I'll do just that
then she loaded a tray and went to where he sat.

He did not ask, as she did sat down the tray
what happened next, I remember to this day.

I happened to look up in a little while
and through the mirror, I saw him smile.

He looked straight at me, somehow he just knew
for as he wiped his chin, he mouthed "thank you."

She never told him, he didn't see
how could this stranger know it was me?

I looked away to dry me eyes
when I looked back I was surprised.

Just as fast as he came, that's how fast he was gone
but the feeling inside, I would carry home.

Who was this man, all weary and worn
could he have been an angel, in manly form?

Take heed lest we entertain angels unaware

       ~ Written by Sharon Streege who has her website at
http://www.geocities.com/sosstop/ This is a true story that

happened to Sharon and her daughter. Copyright 12/12/01 ~

 All original artwork, text, and layout are Copyright © 1999 by 52Best, Inc. 
  The name 52Best, the 52Best logo, and the name "Angel Star" are marks of 52Best, Inc.