She Strengthens

Growing Up with Scarcity: A Journey of Ups and Downs

My childhood was marked by scarcity. Until I was eight, I didn’t know what it meant to have financial security. Hand-me-downs and thrift store clothes were my norm. My single mom, a graduate student, worked tirelessly to provide for my brother and me. We rarely went out for dinner or to the movies, as these were luxuries we couldn’t afford. However, my mom made cooking at home an enjoyable experience, and we often shared a giant bowl of ramen at a local restaurant, feeling like royalty on a tight budget.

A Turning Point

Everything changed when my mom graduated from an Ivy League business school. She landed a good job, and our lives transformed. We started wearing store-bought clothes, and I finally got to experience the magic of Toy Story on the big screen. My dad, who had moved closer to us, became more involved in our lives, and we enjoyed a comfortable middle-class existence.

The Rise to Success

My mom’s career took off, and she started her own business, which skyrocketed with the help of two prominent clients. Her success was a testament to her hard work and determination as a single, non-white mother. We were proud of her accomplishments and understood that her busy schedule was a necessary sacrifice for our well-being.

The Dark Side of Success

However, my mom’s business wasn’t built to last. She invested heavily in her company, buying an apartment in a great neighborhood and maintaining a luxurious lifestyle. She also took on pro-bono clients and paid her staff before herself, which ultimately led to financial struggles. Despite her best intentions, her business is now closing, leaving us to adjust to a new reality.

Lessons Learned

Watching my mom’s business rise and fall has taught me valuable lessons about the importance of financial responsibility and humility. It’s easy to get accustomed to a life of abundance, but it’s crucial to remember the days of scarcity. My brother and I have learned to be frugal once again, cutting back on unnecessary expenses and supporting each other through this challenging time.

A New Chapter

Although my mom’s business is ending, she remains an inspiration to me. She proved that with determination and hard work, anyone can achieve success. Although her journey was marked by ups and downs, she will always be okay. And as we navigate this new chapter, we’ll continue to support each other, remembering the values of frugality and resilience that defined our early years.