The rising cost of living - poem

(T-Shirt available here)

They say "add more joy",

As if it's that easy.

It's said in a tone,

That's carefree and breezy.

They don't understand,

I would if I could.

Counteract the negative,

With something that's good.

The cost of living is rising,

In more ways than one.

Energy is currency,

And I've got none.

Chronic illness is tricky,

A balance to tend to.

Even joy has a cost,

Earmarked for my debts due.

An overdraft is dangerous,

It puts me at risk.

Can't will this away,

With a shake of my fist.

When reserves are empty,

There's nothing to spend.

It isn't my mindset,

This isn't pretend.

I can't add more in,

Though I would like to.

Do you think I enjoy,

This torment I'm put through?

I know stress is unhealthy,

Don't need told twice.

But joy's not free either,

There's always a price.

Hobbies and interests,

Friendship and laughter.

It isn't all sunshine,

I'll pay for it after.

I know I need balance,

But I don't get a say.

In the size of the bills,

That I still have to pay.

I'm doing what I can,

I really am trying.

To work out these sums,

Between saving and buying.

No matter what,

Someone will judge it.

As if it's not hard enough,

Living life on this budget.