Actually uplifting
Sorry, but this isn't very sorrowful. It's too uplifting and upbeat in my opinion. The vague story I get is something like this:
A poor man has been let down time and time, his dreams shattered long ago. He works from till dusk working a low paying job he loaths simply to make ends meet, but he always manages to somehow provide for his family. He works to live and lives to work in a viscious cycle of dissapointments and let downs. Yet he still holds hope for a brighter tomorrow. His resolute attitude carries him onward, and he knows that he shall triumph in the end!
It sounds cheesy and generic, but that is the jist of what I hear. I felt really uplifted in the end, which is great! It's not so great for a sad themed contest, however.
As far as the actual music, it was quite enjoyable. The acoustic guitar was simple but effective, as was the bass. The melody was easy to follow and the chords were very uplifting. They really gave a feel of determination in the midst of much pain. I can't stand the sampled instruments, though. The strings especially are annoying. There are tons of free soundfonts that you may be able to use with your software.
Good job, but not sad. :P
~Blaze