Within sunny California (Just a wisp of smog arriba), Not far from L.A's Chinatown, A rich driver looks, with a frown, At a beggar sat on a crate - Gaunt, it seems long since she last ate. As the driver stops at the light, The beggar moves her hand upright. But, though the cap clasped holds small cash, The rich man shares not his large stash.
Yet, to all it is plain to see, This beggar lives in poverty. But, like a fifth of humankind, Little help this woman will find. For too selfish the wealthy fare To help the poor - to care and share.
And, in Tijuana, Mexico, Another has no place to go - It's an hour before midnight, And he's curled outside a shopping site: "He is sick," I'm told, passing by; "Him and the system," I reply. Then my hand to my pocket goes For all my coins - sixteen pesos. Enough for three meals - beans, rice - But, for a home, it won't suffice.
Yet, to all it is plain to see, This pauper dwells in poverty. But, like one fifth of humankind, Small help this sick hombre will find. 'Cause too competitive most fare To change the scheme - to care and share.
In Bangkok and Barcelona, Bombay, Melbourne and Manila - Such woes exist all round the globe: Poor food, poor clothes and no abode. These are Maslow's essential needs, And they can be met - with good deeds. The beggars all could leave the street - With some kit for body and feet. But voted leaders cut the aid From which much housing could be made.
Yet, to all it is plain to see, Too many live in poverty. But, from the rest of humankind, A lack of help they tend to find. For too greedy most snug-ones fare To fix the need - to care and share.