Hard Times Then And Now Poem by Marilyn Lott

We take so much for granted
When we take the time to look back
Life was hard for so many
Their work was never slack

The jobs were rare at times
So people did what they could
To stretch that mighty penny
Doing what they knew they should

Everything was patchable
Oh yes, from the car to the shoes
Scrounging up the pieces
And if necessary using the news

A piece of clothing was used
Many times around
From an apron to a patchwork quilt
Plenty of uses were always found

The days were long and weary
Not much to smile about
Dirt poor was a common phrase
So much that they did without

But you know, we don’t have to look far
Maybe folks no longer work a plow
But there are poor folks in parts of our country
Not much difference from then and now!