I lived on the shady side of the road
and watched my neighbours’ gardens
across the way revelling in the sunshine.
I felt I was poor
and from door to door went in my hunger.
The more they gave me from their careless
abundance the more I became aware of
my beggar’s bowl.
Till one morning I awoke from my sleep
at the sudden opening of my door
and you came and asked for alms.
In despair I broke open the lid of my chest
and was startled into finding my own wealth.