He sits, waiting for us, every day
Perched in the doorway, perfectly balanced, just across the way from the primary school. He’s next door to the pop up pho restaurant, across from the countless bikes, schoolchildren just dismounted and sneaking across the road for their breakfast. Morning pho, of course.
It’s rush hour at the school
And he’s there to witness it.
Regular, like a grandfather
Clock
He sits, legs crossed
And every time we pass he is silent, introspective
Observant.
His greying, short-cropped hair belies his youthfulness. Eyes shining, he keeps watch over the school.
And in so doing, keeps himself young.
Get Up Eight 
Short and powerful. I can clearly see the man amongst the hustle and bustle.
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Each morning I wave at that lovely man!
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Your description of this man is impeccable. I can picture him clearly! It reminds me of the “regulars” I would pass on my walks to school while teaching in South America. I loved the details of those walks – thanks for the memory!
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Love your play on words: like a grandfather/clock.
And I believe you when you say he stays young by keeping watch over the school.
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I wonder what is going through his thoughts as he observes? How many years has he been there? Reading about him sitting beside the restaurant, I hope means he gets fed, somehow.
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I like the patterning of this, the slow unfolding, as if a clock is ticking. I can feel the time passing-tick, tock-with each brief line. The surprise at finding out that he’s young at the end is lovely. Also, now I want Pho again.
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A worthy pick for spotlight of the day. Amy is right, your words are so thoughtful and contain so much.
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