The Gala II

The children are all nestled in their beds
in the poorest quarters of Brooklyn, but
a few, special Brooklynites continue to celebrate
their triumphant creation,
their gift to the needier folks:
Affordable Housing
Yes, it is a well known fact
that the ability to generate affordable housing
can reduce human pain and suffering
by considerable amounts,
make poverty meaningful,
and maybe even raise a reading score or two.
Even when situated on a brownfield,
Even when fueled by dizzying mathematics,
Affordable housing can make a difference!
And the low income children of Brooklyn thank them
for doing such a great job,
for making their suffering all so worthwhile.
Isn’t this obvious tonight
over toast points and lemon wedges, and
nicely trimmed tomato slices,
affordable housing drawings
draping over the table and walls,
where the the art of these children also stands,
as a tribute to that kind of generosity,
and the continuing success of their organization?
c. 2008 Graziella Radici

(GL Contributor Graziella Radici resides in the Greater Carroll Gardens/Gowanus Metroplex.)