Money and poverty-

I’ve seen both.

Smiles of joy and tears of frustration-

I’ve seen both.

Happy occasions and suicidal actions-

I’ve seen both.

No job or money,

Nor happiness or hope.

I’ve seen it all.

You’ve lived with it all.

Now, there's one goal.

I dream of one goal.

A better life.

Not just for me,

But for you.

For all those years you struggled to raise me.

And all those troubles you juggled,

Just to feed me.

For those days you cried in your room.

And those days I watched you in doom.

I greet each day because of you.

I meet each day with anticipation,

Expectation,

And determination.

Because you,

Are my inspiration.

Though your life, at times, was hard

And it left you somewhat scarred,

You persevered.

You raised me to be the best I can possibly be.

You’ve made me see the life I want.

You’ve made me realize my dreams.

You’ve made me eager to achieve.

You’ve made me want to reach for the stars.

Because of you,

I have the strength to face each morning.

Because of you,

I greet each day.

Through anguish and glee,

You’ve helped me see

Just how life can be.

So,

I may arise for a better future.

And I may arise for a better me.

But mostly,

I arise because of you.