Dichotomy of Economy

In today’s world of economy

There is a startling dichotomy

Of the have’s and the have-not’s

Of those with little and those with lots

There’s those who stress over college tuition

And those who dream of college admission

There’s those who lament their tax bracket is too high

And those who are just barely getting by

There’s those who dispose of seasonal fashion

And those who depend on government ration

There’s those whose diamonds come from stocks

And those who propose with scavenged rocks

There’s those who object to pricey healthcare

And those who wait in emergency room chairs

There’s those who discard half their plate

Because, well, they’re conscious of their weight

But the food they’ve wasted so carelessly

Could’ve easily fed a family

So let us rid ourselves of all undue stress

There’ll always be those with more and those with less

Instead take a moment and appreciate

Pause to evaluate those gifts innate

The ones that create lasting impressions

Unlike our worldly possessions

Our inner self that makes us who we are

Stands apart from our clothes and our car

It proudly proclaims our identities

Without need of any amenities

Let us be more than what we own

And delight in the simple stones

Making Strides

“Hey, you coming in today?”

            Not recognizing the number, I asked “Who is this?”

            “Oh, sorry, Marjorie. Me and Jordan were wondering.”

            Marjorie! I’d met Jordan’s friend recently, who had taken the initiative and requested a tutor. Her text signified, at least to me, that I was making progress on a personal level. Warmth spread through me in waves, triggered by the knowledge that our sessions were not only needed but wanted. I replied back promising to show up next week.

            A large portion of my volunteering at Sci High, outside the academic aspect, lay in building a relationship with my students. More than helping them pass a class, my goal was to serve as a role model and kindle a love for learning. By applying classroom material to everyday activities, I emphasize that learning is not confined to the walls of their high school but is a lifelong pursuit. Slowly, they have begun to discuss their family lives, interests, and future plans such as college aspirations. This text, innocuous at first glance, exemplifies the comfort level they now feel, a sought-after achievement on my part.

            “Marjorie? I’ll see you both tomorrow.”

March community service hours: 6