Money makes the world go around
in circles
like a dog that chases its tail
and eventually bites it, drawing blood.
We’re paid less than we earn
which is much much less
than nothing.

It’s a good thing I had
a taste for nothing then
I ate it in handfuls
and when I had no more nothing,
I did nothing.
I couldn't afford a piano for years.
Now that I have one
I don't play it often.

I walked to grade school with patches
sewn onto my clothing by my mother.
I felt warm with shame, but didn't understand
why I felt that way.
When my mom scoffed at price tags
I'd shush her, that hot feeling
in my cheeks again.