Friendly Strangers

I like the simple friendliness
Of Strangers on the street,
Who have the grace to say 'Hello'
To anyone they meet.

Who never hesitate to smile,
And lend a helping hand,
Or listen to a tale of woe
And try to understand.

Who give direction if they can,
And when the rain comes down,
Will share their own umbrella
With other folks in town.

I always like the strangers
who display their pleasant smiles,
To ease the burdens of this life
and lighten weary miles.

I like their simple friendliness
Wherever they may go,
Because they are polite and kind
To those they do not know.

-- James J. Metcalde.