I was a single parent for twenty three years before I re-married. MaDear and Dad taught me how to be a parent. I invested in my children and tried to be an example for them. Along the way, my daughters married and I gained son in loves. You never know who will enter your life …
Even with parents to guide me, I still made many mistakes and made poor choices along life’s journey. I was still finding my way. The road out of poverty seemed too long. I took some shortcuts and hidden roads. These roads were leading me down the wrong path. I received spiritual spankings and got back …
According to World Population Review, poverty is universally defined as not having enough income to meet basic needs. This extends beyond just not having enough money for a new vehicle, smartphone, or to take a vacation. Instead, people that live in poverty struggle to keep a roof over their heads, put food on the table, …
Four years ago, my seven year old granddaughter inspired me to write this story. The happy little girl was skipping beside her grandmother as she walked. She watched their inseparable companions make the same moves they made. Her long curly ponytail bounced up and down as if keeping step with each skip. Her inseparable companion’s …
Man in his natural state does wicked things because he has an evil heart. No one is naturally good. God didn’t create evil. Evil occurs when we remove Him from the situation. Survival is the first concern of a man. Human desire is for the universe to make sense. The Bible is the best known, …
Last May, I wrote a blog post titled Poverty in Appalachian America. I am intrigued about the 13 state regions; therefore, I subscribed to their mailing list and receive email updates. The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) was approved by Congress in 1965. The regions receive millions of dollars for education, infrastructure, and jobs. This week, …
Recently, I traveled by motor coach with a community group of like-minded travelers to Mackinac Island, located in Northern Michigan. This was my first trip to Michigan and excitement was in the air. Because the ride was long and we were in a motor coach, we made many stops on our journey. One amazing stop …
In the 1940s through 1960s, many families lived in poverty. According to research, in 1940 approximately 87% of Black families lived below the poverty line. It decreased to 47% by 1960. From 1960-1980, the poverty level dropped 18 more points. My family and I lived in poverty during those times. There are many reasons for …
My late mom was the strongest woman I knew. This no-nonsense lady guided her five children to success in spite of living in the Jim Crow South. I’m the youngest of five children and remember thinking she was my personal “Fannie Lou Hamer.” We called her MaDear. After MaDear and Dad married, he served in …
Our father loved to write. We called him Dad. He served our country during WWII and after discharge; he did not receive G.I. benefits. We lived in abject poverty in the segregated South. He supported his family by working in cotton fields and as a day laborer. After moving to a military town, he was hired …