what's it like being poor?

what's it like being poor?
ask your mother
who gave a lot
for little in return.
what's it like being poor?
try biting your lips
and chewing your nails
when the cupboard is bare.
what's it like being poor?
brush up on math
learn to subtract a lot
when the bills add up.
what's it like being poor?
take the yoga class
where you wait in line
to speak with someone who don't understand.
what's it like being poor?
become a collector
marvel over nickles and dimes
and cherish quarters like diamonds.
what's it like being poor?
ask your mother earth
the one who gives everything
for nothing in return.