New York
is where you come
to be known

even, if only,
in small ways

The pizzaman
who calls you buddy …
“Hey buddy.”
“What you need buddy?”

The guy at
the cigar shop
who silently nods
acknowledgment

or the homeless man
who says, “Hi, how are you?”
then quietly, “can I
get a little help?”

The bar
on the corner
the diner
down the street

Everyone greets you
like a friend

This is how you know
you’re home

(D. James)