Sunday, May 10, 2020

I am a taxpayer


I was born into a world, full of competition and drive
Formative years spent, honing the skills to survive.
No quota, no reservation, no safety net by my side

Worked hard, played fair, left no stories to un-hide.

I am now told, I am privileged, I am special
I am part of the country’s 4% that is crucial!
Some of what I own, fairly, belongs to the nation
But are they fair: the ethics of taxation?

Some fruits of my labor, I do not even get
Deducted at source, lest I forget.
What I do see, I accept with a smile
Alas, it lasts for only a fleeting while!

I have a family to feed, things that I need
I will pay a tax on every one of these indeed.
I will pay the help, pay for service, pay the loan;
Sustaining the economy is my responsibility alone?

A nation is built on contribution and sacrifice;
Killing the golden goose, will not suffice.
Would I be so side-lined, bone dry and bled:
If I had votes proportional to my salary instead?