Two thousand three is ending
A new year is on the brink
Some folks will toast it's arrival
With their very favorite drink.

Still others will bring the new year in
While sleeping in their beds
With dreams of peace and happiness
Dancing through their heads. 

But lots of folks throughout the world
Will barely be aware
Of the passing of an old year
In their eyes a vacant stare.

A stare brought on by hunger
A stare with lack of hope
A stare of truly giving up
A life at the end of its' rope.

My hope for all would be just this
Warm shelter, food and health
A year of changes for the good
Loving life can be our "wealth".