"Desperate times call for desperate measures"
They say as they seek out life's simple pleasures
Not elaborate things, riches, or gold
Just enough money for food & rent is what they stole
Life & times are hard these days
And for that, the younger generation pays
Some can't find honest work, so they steal
Hoping to provide their family with at least one meal
If only someone could give them a break
They wouldn't be so desperate & have to take
They aren't out to hurt anyone
They aren't doing it for fun
It's done out of sheer desperation
Poverty, homelessness, & starvation are realities in our nation
This is a reality we just cannot ignore
For their leniency I do implore
For theirs & their families sake
Please don't make them pay 30 years for a mistake
A mistake caused by suffering, struggling, & strife
A mistake caused by the desperation of life