The Truth About Being Poor

The Truth About Being Poor

Unfortunately, there are many truly poor people in this world. People who do not have adequate food, health care, clean water, access to basic education, nor a stable roof over their heads. But being poor to many is just a state of mind---a phrase too often used in the wrong context.

I recently commented on a Facebook post that even though I have no bank account, owe back taxes, and barely make it through each day, I do not consider myself poor. Financially unfortunate, perhaps, but not poor.

I have a loving family, and even though they are 2000 miles away, I know they care about me, and love me for who and what I am.  I don’t have to pretend to be someone else, or hide my beliefs.  I am accepted and loved as my  true self.

I have had many loving pets over the years that offer unconditional love and only hope for love and good care in return, which they most definitely are given. They are such loving, innocent creatures, that they most likely would still love me, even if they didn’t get the good care I give to them. Animals know what love and commitment mean.

I have few, but wonderful friends nearby, and know they will be here for me in times of need---to provide both physical and emotional support.  Hopefully, they know I will do the same for them.

Internet social sites are wonderful outlets to share like interests with others around the world. I have met some great friends through the internet, and even though we may never meet in the physical world, we share a bond of friendship that is as strong as if they lived next door.

I have a roof over my head, and food on my table. I have a job, small as it may be, but it gives me a reason to wake up each day, knowing I have a useful purpose in life. I struggle each day to hold onto my home, and without the help I receive, would have lost it by now.

I have a respect for everything and everyone in this world. I look out a window and see what nature has given me. I walk outside and see the blue skies, the white clouds, the sunset,the trees, the birds fluttering around singing their sweet melodies. I see deer, wild turkeys, woodchucks, hawks, squirrels, chipmunks, and even the industrious bees that threaten me.

I marvel at the colorful flowers—garden and wild varieties—nature in her full glory of color. I hear thunder and see lightning, and feel the refreshing rains. I go down to the shore and meditate with the sound of the waves crashing onto the shore as my background music.

I look forward to the winter snows, sparkling snowflakes covering the ground and providing the plants with a blanket of protection to help them through the long, cold winter months.

Yes, I have so much to be thankful for. I am NOT poor—not by any means other than monetarily. Love and the  overall beauty of this world are so much more valuable than money.

Joanne Matthew ©