I buy some things I can't afford A lot of times, I must admit; Though what I have I try to hoard And practice thrift with all of it, I sometimes see in someone's store Some trifle I've a longing for That really isn't on my list; Down in my pocket goes my fist -- But not for clothes or fancy lids; The article I can't resist Is something foolish for the kids. I walk right past the things I want, Right past the things perhaps I need, The joys I'd like to have, and can't: Some book that I would like to read, A better hat, a newer tie, I see them all, and pass them by -- But notice every little while A toy to make the children smile, And, though my purse perhaps forbids, Rush in and spend my little pile For something foolish for the kids. I hope I never shall become A man who money throws away; I want to have a little sum Saved up against a rainy day. I hope I only want, O Lord, The things I really can afford; And yet, O Lord, I pray to you I'm not so thrifty through and through, Though wisdom frowns and thrift forbids, That I don't spend a little, too, For something foolish for the kids. | Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!Other Poems of Interest...DESTINY by GEORGIA DOUGLAS JOHNSON OMNIPRESENCE by GEORGIA DOUGLAS JOHNSON MEMOIR OF A PROUD BOY by CARL SANDBURG |