I know the struggle and it is real. In my line of work, I can go from can we eat another pot of rice to let's go out to eat in a heartbeat. I don't mind those lean times, it reminds us what life is really about. I've always known poverty, it's been a constant companion, so it doesn't hurt so much to find it on my doorstep again.
Sometimes, it gets old, and I want to win the lottery, or sell more books, or buy a tent and stop paying rent, but most of the time, I know it will change again. To me, poverty is not having food, clothing, shelter. Anything above that is a bonus that should be enjoyed and savored graciously. We never know what tomorrow will bring, so I tend to keep an eye on the door, now that I'm older, because I know that old companion will come knocking again, when I least expect, or want it.
I think, because I grew up in a culture where you help each other or let your neighbor starve, that I've learned that spending time with people, doing for others, can be just as rewarding as giving them money. Sometimes it means more to take someone without a car to the grocery store than it does to give them bus fare. Or to take them medicine when they are sick and can't get out. I've helped just as many as have helped me, and that's what makes life grand. I may never be rich, or have it all, but most of the time I don't want that kind of life anyway. Appreciating what I have, the people around me, and life is far more enjoyable anyway. Except in the summer, when an air conditioner is nice. Then I might complain, haha.
RE: What is it like to be POOR. What is it like to struggle in life and find ways to eat?