Blog Action Day 08 Poverty

I just wanted to take a minute from the regular ramblings to post in support of the Blog Action Day 08 and raising awareness of Poverty issues both here and abroad. The economy has been all over the news lately but still very little discussion on true poverty.

I grew up with a single mom on welfare. We never had a car. I remember watching (and not understanding at the time) my mom create the monthly food lists so she could buy just the right amount. I remember the thrift stores and food closets and being embarrased that someone would see me in KMart. I don't know how my mom did it but I appreciate the skills that it taught me. I understand now what she was going through. When you have to make balance the choice between having gas or bus fare to go to work or food for the kids. I know now about the struggle to say no to the kids when they want the things their friends have.

I also know that I am lucky because I have a roof over my head and a job and a family to come home to. Not everyone does and we need to fix that--even just a little at a time.