The rich man complained
that the soup lacked
sufficient
meat and vegetables
and I searched with my spoon
for my own nourishment.

The grieving mother moaned
that the soup was too sour and spicy
and I carefully tasted it
prepared for disappointment.

Then the homeless man rejoiced
at the simple succulent meal,
the warmth and many flavors
and I shared with him
the manifold pains and joys
of each moment.