The No Joke Broke Folk

They
cradle loved ones
near to breast
in the thick of the night
on the floor
of window-less 

            shack 

                        shanty

                                    hut

                        single-room house

                                    abandoned building.
Their prayers
to make it through
till morning
are tears on tired
faces.

I have heard someone once 
whisper “when all you’ve got
is nothing, there’s a lot
to go around;” 
I believe 
They have this 
figured out
because though
They wear dirt
for shoes
Their smiles illuminate
brighter than the simple fires
that keep them warm

while they are together
I have a lot
To learn from they
who see clearly
how the present 
is indeed a gift,
and so can live
in the richness of love
with all
the naught
They have today

By Destinee Sharai Nelons