A Silent Hunger

My friends shared stories of their lives,
I sat quietly, feeling invisible.
They spoke of things I only saw on TV,
Luxuries my family couldn’t afford.

A towel, I once asked for,
And was told I always wanted more.
I didn’t understand—
What was more? Wasn’t enough just enough?

Basic needs felt like luxuries to us,
A meal, a bed, a roof—simple things.
I didn’t know what it was like to have plenty,
But I learned to hide the hunger inside.

When they laughed, I stayed quiet,
Afraid of being judged,
Afraid they’d see my lack,
And make me feel less than.

I didn’t ask for what they had,
I just wanted what was mine.
But silence became my shield,
In a world where wanting felt wrong.