“Who wants to be poor?” I ask, and

Who wants....

“Who wants to be poor?” I ask, andno one raises their hand –“Or middle class?” and nearlyevery student nods – except fortwo. “Why middle class?”And Brian says, “That’s how you find love –You need to have money.” Jason whoRarely speaks mutters, “I’m tired ofLiving paycheck to paycheck.” I push on. “And rich?Who wants to be rich?” The two unspoken put their hands up,Into the air. “And how will you achieve this?”“By finishing school and working hard.” Scott speaksin a low voice, as if he were embarrassed to yearn forRiches.
“Wait!” Eric calls out – his face lined withconflict. “Can I be both rich and middle class?”He has already chosen the middle class, but looksAt me, imploringly, as if I were a Greek oracle, deciding hisFate; and even before I can find an answer, EricCrashes his fist on the edge of the chair, “No!”He shouts, determined, “I’m tired ofBeing a spoiled brat – I’ll be middle-class!”And the students cheer