I write and speak about growing up in abject poverty in the Jim Crow South. I hope that sharing my family’s story will help inspire and empower others.
I still live in the South, but in a different region of the state. Times have changed over the years but sometimes, I still feel like that little girl living with her family in a shotgun shack. I think about how our parents guided their five children out of poverty and I’m grateful. My parents and siblings have all passed, and I reflect back on the love we shared and life lessons we learned in spite of our circumstances. This year is the first year without my parents and siblings.
When I was a little girl woods were behind our shack. Those woods were scary because we never knew who or what was lurking in them. During snow or ice storms, the limbs snapped and fell, creating a quiet fear in the mind of a five year old girl. I knew my parents would protect us, but the fear was part of my active imagination.
Many horror movies are made about the woods. Over the years, I learned to enjoy the beautiful nature of the woods. There’s nothing like a long stroll down a quiet trail. On occasion, it feels good to disconnect from the daily grind and recharge in a natural and authentic way. I learned to notice and appreciate when the leaves change clothes and appreciate the fresh smell permeating the air. On occasion, a rabbit, squirrel, or other animal would watch from the distance or scurry away. Either strolling in the woods or looking at pictures of nature helps me find balance.
Recently, we had snow. We have snow every year but this year was different. I live next to a wooded area and found myself staring in wonder at the blanket of snow covering the trees. The sparkling snow created a graceful curve on the tree’s branches. The scenery was beautiful and comforting. I felt like it was my own enchanted forest.
I thought about growing up in that shack in front of the scary woods. This year started with natural disasters, personal losses, turmoil, and uncertainty. Walking in the woods may help engage our senses in a different way. We tend to be more mindful. Exercising or simply enjoying the environment may reduce blood pressure as well as stress-related hormones cortisol and adrenaline. Many countries have adapted the idea of “forest bathing.” International forest centers with designated trails have proven scientifically to improve the health of the citizens. During my recent visit to France, I noted how the citizens enjoy nature. There’s an abundance of parks and walking trails. Nature helps me enjoy internal calmness.
The winters in the shotgun shack off Highway 61were treacherous. The wind howled like a hungry wolf. Ice hung from the tin roof like glaciers. We knocked the ice from the shack so we would have ice sickles to suck on. We pretended we had popsicles. There was no insulation in the shack. Our mother (MaDear) paste old newspapers on the walls and put raggedly quilts up to the windows in an effort to keep out the draft. This was no match for the strong winds. The wood burning stove tried it’s best to keep us warm but it was not enough for the icy and cold winter nights. My sister and I shared a bed and our brothers shared another. Our parents slept by the wooden stove in the back of the shack. We lived during tumultuous times; therefore a shotgun was always within reach.
The cold wind seeped inthrough the cracks in the wall and floor. It felt like we were living outside. One night, my five year oldfeet were frost bitten while sleeping and MaDear had to thaw them out. It felt like I had bricks for feet.
At night, by the flickering light of the coal oil lamp, I saw the shadows of our parents praying. They believed in the power of prayer and sacrificed so much for our family to have a better life. We had a difficult journey, but our parents guided us to success.
Approximately two years ago, I began taking Tai Chi. This mind body exercise helps to improve balance and coordination. The mindful breathing and slow movements promote relaxation and can help alleviate stress and anxiety. In warm weather, I practice outside near the wooded area beside my home.
As I reflect back, I’m grateful for the journey God allowed my family and me to take. In spite of poverty, I grew up in a loving Christian environment with loving parents and siblings. My message to others is to “Never Give Up.”
I am fortunate to enjoy a great life. I’m also grateful to have access and a perfect view of the enchanting woods!
Francie Mae. January 12, 2025