Going into my fourth grade year I remember going to an Ames store and being able to select only one outfit and a pair of shoes. I chose a black pant suit with white button down and vest that had kittens all over it. My mother had to put the items on layaway, and to my disappointment was unable to pick up the items before the grade started. A blessing came my way though, and the week before picture day, my outfit arrived and I chose to wear my pant suit for my picture. That picture reminds me of my beginning; humble beginnings and a sense of style. It also proved that patience and a hard work ethic is the best course of action for earning what your heart desires. That picture reminds me that as children, they don’t have a choice, yet are subject to the world’s harsh reality of how they should dress, what they should buy, what they should be. We can do better!
Hand-me-downs came as an unusual sense of excitement for me. However, when I was in 6th grade, I was approached by the girl that had given away her clothes in good faith. In her defense, her approach was nothing other than inquisitive and in good nature; yet, I felt ashamed and embarrassed. Middle School was a hard time during my childhood as being bullied for what one wears, or even owns was a daily torment. Thankfully, a blessing was bestowed upon me, and I met my best friend in 7th grade as she stuck up for me from a group of girls picking on me for the type of school tablet I owned. In my early high school years, I would not allow friends into my house because there were times we did not have electricity. The shame, humiliation, and resentment this created within me, I do not know how I overcame it. This is the price of poverty. This price stays with you your entire life – there is no escaping it, only learning how to cope with it.
I do however owe my driven nature and some success and happiness to a handful of teachers that pushed me to become better and believed in me. I will never forget their names, Mrs. Meckey, Mrs. Bookhammer, and Mr. Olson. I am now thirty-two with a child of my own. The bruises that bullying have left on me are still with me and still come as vivid reminders throughout my life. Because of this, with my own son, I have emphasized throughout his childhood and now tween years compassion, empathy, and respect for others. We, not only as parents, but as stewards in good faith must teach children that a child is more than what they wear and what they own. Instilling in them good morals; how to work with one another through healthy avenues; and not to be discouraged by other’s views of what they perceive them to be. We all can make a difference through our community by investing in our youth through schools; after school programs; community sports and events; churches, community parks; and various nonprofits that benefit specific localities.
I am proud to state I am an ambassador to the Western Division of the Pennsylvania Salvation Army. Through this experience I have been given the opportunity to give back as well as impact others with my story. The truth is we all have the ability to affect change. I am not suggesting that you make such a huge change it can be seen by millions, hundreds even – your difference can start at home. Taking the time to educate one another and finding your own path to giving back to your community. Need some ideas? Please check out my Ways to Volunteer Page.
With Love,
Amanda
p.s. forgive the awful hair – it was the early 1990s!
#poverty #communityempowerment #bullying #community #communityempowermentproject #wecandobetter #inthistogether
Her Boots 