Although money was tight, my mother’s determination and the support of our extended family created a strong foundation for me. The adage “it takes a village to raise a child” was my reality. While my mom worked or went to school, older relatives—my great aunts, uncles, and cousins—stepped in as caretakers, making sure I was never alone.
One summer when I was 10, my mom enrolled me in a computer course at a local community college. It was a pivotal experience for me, even though I was typing with a cast on my thumb after a failed breakdancing attempt! Learning to use a computer in the early 90s felt like stepping into the future. I didn’t know it then, but those skills would later open doors for me in ways I couldn’t imagine.
My mom was also taking classes at the time, supported by a program for single mothers on welfare. These programs were a lifeline, offering her an opportunity to pursue education she couldn’t have afforded otherwise. Knowing college costs today, I’m in awe of her determination to improve her life despite the odds.
When my mom graduated, they told her she’d secure a job within six months. As the months dragged on with no offers, she began to lose hope and considered moving us to Baltimore to be closer to other family. Then, the call came. The State offered her a job that provided better pay and benefits, including health insurance. It was a life-changing moment for both of us, marking the first step toward financial stability. But as one chapter closed, another challenge emerged.
Stay tuned for more of my story, lessons, tips, and real-life experiences as I continue to navigate life without debt!
Leave a Reply