Selfish

I hear about big companies

that own big factories,

that hire young children, 

and withhold promised salaries.

Labour is brought out by force

in these unsafe working conditions.

I am outraged when I hear about 

this crime against children’s rights. 

Yet here I am,

typing on a computer

likely made in one of those factories.

Here I am,

wearing a shirt from the mall

likely made in one of those factories.

Here I am,

lacing up shoes everyday

likely made in one of those factories.

I consider myself to be compassionate.

I care deeply 

about the injustices in the world,

about the unfair treatment of others.

But maybe I am selfish,

for it is people like me

that keep these corporations in business.

So, I am selfish.