You can lead a horse to water
But you can't make him drink,
You can tell a man the facts
But you can't make him think,
You can tell him you're angry
And you can tell him why
But don't be upset if
He doesn't bother to reply.
He's probably tired and worried
Trying to make ends meet
Juggling his money so
His family can eat.
He works all hours he can
For the minimum wage
And he has to toe the line
Just can't show his rage,
And he's in despair
That he needs the food banks
He's got over the shame
As he mutters his thanks.
He knows he should be angry
Knows it isn't right
But the struggle for survival
Has killed his will to fight.
Unless you've been in his position
Unless you yourself have been there
You just can't know the effect of
Hopelessness, defeat and despair.
So, don't talk down to him
Just try to understand
And if you are able
Give him a helping hand.
Being angry is a luxury
When you're bottom of the heap
When all you have in life
Is to eat, work and sleep.
Leave the horse at the trough
And in time it may drink
Treat a man with respect and dignity
And in time he may think.
