Pebbles

Lunch

 I trudge along in the back of my class, my shoe flapping about. I sit down outside and open my lunch pail not expecting anything new. A tuna sandwich, again. Just like every other day. It gets old and is very gross. But it also makes me sad, because every day the other kids have something different. Something yummy. I complain a little but I then remind myself that some kids have no food. Not only food is missing, for my desk partner comes to school with no shoes on at all. 

I also feel bad for my parents. I hear them arguing at night. I not supposed to, but I hear them talk about sacrificing things, but I don't know what that means. Other times I hear them talking about what food we don't need, I hope they give up carrots, and what would be the cheapest decision . We never have enough money, and Daddy wishes Mommy would work so we could get more money. Daddy tries his best. I don't see him in the mornings, and Daddy comes home late and very tired. He is happy when he sees me, Mommy, and sissy but he also looks sad, like he can't do something no matter how hard he tries.

          

I take a bite of my sandwich. Once you get used to tuna fish, it's not so bad, but I still make faces. Everyday, I wonder if we could get something else, like... jam, or peanut butter! I wonder if I could do something to get money for jam? Could I get a job like Daddy? I would leave school in a second to get a job. I don't like school anyways, and it's really easy. I could get a job and make money for shoes, jam, and even medicine for sissy! That way Mommy could get more food for us. I finish up my sandwich, but save a bit for my desk partner. Her face glows every time i give her the sandwich, even if it is tuna. She never brings a lunch. Mommy said I should never share or waste any food, but I give her some anyways. I have some, and she has none. It's not fair. I also have a plan. If Mommy is able to get new shoes, I will find a way to give my desk partner my old shoes. I pick up my pail and last bit of sandwich, and head towards the door. I am ready to learn.