I saw her on the train 

sitting alone, cross-legged  

on a seat for three 

grey hair woven into filthy braids 

a tattered cardigan and beige pants 

looking out through the window 

eyes shining brightly 

bony fingers scratching 

the lice infested scalp 

I stole a glance or two 

not without the fear  

of meeting her gaze 

as she sat rubbing her hand 

on her handsome, swarthy face