Slave Bracelet

I'm just a slave to the state
As evident by the gold on my wrist.
I'm decorated by a trinket
Paid for by overtime.
Priceless hours away from my wife and children
And from other crucial commitments.
My hours given to the state to pay
For other toys and joys;
Not time spent at more
Important endeavors,
Nor energy expended in
Improvable efforts.
Money earned then gone, easy come
Then easy go with the stroke of a pen.
My gold decorated hand dips deeper
Into the state's coffers and
All I have to give are my
Precious hours and life.