Contrasted Lives

Successful men,
Woo the diffusive fire
And yet feel cold.
What of the homeless, then,
In pitiful attire,
Poor, feeble, old?

Affluence weeps,
A bird the weather kills,
Great souls despair.
Love willing vigil keeps,
Till want all feeling chills,
Frozen by care.

Think not to choose,
Or mere convenience seek,
Some faint heart cheer.
Who comfort could refuse,
To weary ones and weak
Perishing near?