Farmers and Dimes

Family farmers, precariously balanced on the side of a dime . . .

Days are long, filled with hard work;

while the fields are tilled by kin, both young and old;

and the land is nurtured, cherished and saddled with debt.

 

Family farmers, precariously balanced on the side of a dime . . .

Hay bales are heavy, swung by calloused hands;

while the calves are born wet and cold, held in caring arms;

and the machinery is ancient, held together by duct tape and a prayer.

 

Family farmers, precariously balanced on the side of a dime . . .

Super market prices are climbing, but farm bills climb faster;

while the banks stop lending, instead rubbing their hands together;

and another towel get thrown in, soaked with sweat and tears.

 

Family farmers, dimeless, wobbling . . . falling.