Culture of Poverty

Race. Class. Gender. Aaahh, the formidable trio. I want to ponder on class today since we had a discussion this morning. It's interesting how one table can articulate part of your family's experiences. On possessions- we're happy to have each other. On money- to be used, spent. On food- quantity important; key question: did you have enough? On time- present most important, decisions made for moment based on feelings or survival. On destiny- believes in fate; cannot do much to mitigate chance. On driving force- survival, relationships, entertainment.

The reading goes on to say that one of the biggest difficulties in getting out of poverty is managing money. I've always teased my parents on why we've never got a handle on money. Maybe they are right, it is an unfair question. How can you manage something you've never had? I used to always ask why they had more children than they could comfortably raise and put through school. Again, probably a very unfair question. But I look at my brothers and sisters now and realize that everyone is so precious. My youngest sister just gives so much joy to everyone. I can't imagine my parents being happy without her. My youngest brother gives most of his income to my mom and that just totally warms her heart. It's been a financial struggle all the way but I don't think my parents would have it any other way. They would say, "No worries. We survive somehow." They will still not save money because there is nothing to save. There would still be no budget since their income is not steady. There will still be unexpected expenses. My heart will still break every time I get a plea to send more money on top of what I have budgeted for and I am unable to oblige. Am I supposed to cancel my vacation plans so I could have sent the extra money to them? At the end of the day, yes, I will still take that vacation. I would never want to have feelings of resentment. I don't really like the word "sacrifice". I prefer the term duty. I feel joy when I fulfill my duties. I do have to define for myself what my duties are. Once defined, whatever it takes to fulfill them, I will gladly do with love, joy and peace. If you are happy doing all the things you do, is it still considered a sacrifice? There is only one example of ultimate sacrifice. There would be nothing that I can do to even compare. My purpose is not to sacrifice. I'm here to accept my duties and fulfill them cheerfully.