The humblest infrastructure is the best:

The square, or plaza (with some chairs set out

That may be moved beneath a tree), to rest;

Or else, when what you’d like to do’s get out,

A path—like what we’re walking on today.

It’s just a pavement ribbon, twelve feet wide,

But look at all these people on their way!

Old people, lovers, babes in arms, a pride

Of kids on bikes, fast walkers swinging weights,

A rollerblader, someone on a call—

A hundred happy humans. No one waits

For, or is scared of, cars. The path’s for all.

There’s no pollution, noise, or stench.

The only thing this heaven needs? A bench.

Eric Colburn is a teacher at Brookline High School.