For four years, I have befriended hunger...

For four years, I have befriended hunger.

I’ve gone to bed hungry

for four years

so I could save money and face.

Four years were the sole reference to

my claim to poverty.

I have long balked,

as promises of wealth poured across

the thresholds of success and status.

I shall always endure the

horrific

hours

of my stomach demands,

than to cross

the threshold

and become wealthy.