The Trade-Off
I sat still with moist eyes, looking around me with furtive glances Watching my friends discuss their results with their parents I had topped my class But did not have my progress report to show Victim of a system that blackmailed you Reminding that money ran the show My fees unpaid, my progress report put on hold I sat there helpless, waiting for Mom to help out, once again Suddenly, She came in beaming Holding my Report card with her, waving at me teary-eyed Looking around with pride and joy I knew, another piece of her jewellery was pawned; One more trade-off She hugged me amidst loud claps from my class I sat still with moist eyes...