Marge

04-21-2013, Sunday

 Love Park, Philadelphia

When I got out of my car, I noticed a very old man dressed in pajama pants and dirty coat. He was walking with some difficulty clenching soda can with both hands. He asked, “What’s the matter? You know me?” I sad, “No.” “I am Bob.” “Very nice to meet you, Bob.” “Name?” “Lena. Would you pose for a portrait? I am an artist…” Bob didn’t quite understand that I was going to paint him. “Where is your camera?” I showed him paint and brushes, “It will take about 40 minutes…” “How much?” “I don’t have money.” “How much you charge me?” “Nothing.” He hesitated. “Maybe not today. I have an appointment… They give out soda there. Take care. Be careful. See you around.”

Marge was sitting on the stone parapet, facing busy street and City Hall.  She saw me there yesterday and was not surprise when I asked her to pose. She didn’t mind a sandwich. As I was setting up, a young man dressed in white shirt and black suit and tie greeted Marge and hugged her. He said that he remembers her in his prayers. When he left, Marge explained to me that she sometimes goes to church. That’s all I know about Marge so far; we weren’t doing background check. When I finished painting, Marge was shy about another sandwich, but agreed to take it for later.