Classics for The Kids

We shared a seat for two with
his posterior taking two-thirds.
He was an intellectual, I learned
when one of his books fell into
my lap as the bus lurched ahead.
Before returning it I fingered
the title smiling and nodding.
It was Benjamin Franklin's
"Healthy, Wealthy and Wise,"
a thin one of great value to
any reader. Being familiar with
its tried and true messages
I said, "This volume should be
taught in schools at all levels."
It brought a smile allowing
him to admit me into his close
world. He asked surprisingly,
"And which others do you add
to the list for earlier exposure?"
Replying with my favorite five,
he slowly appraised me anew,
and asked, "Are you a professor?
My answer sealed a friendship
that has lasted over the years,
"Yes, I said," at a school for
blind students, and here is
my badge of courage," proudly
holding up my white cane.


F William Broome 2009