She Strengthens

Understanding the Unseen Struggle of Poverty

Growing up, I experienced financial insecurity, but I’m aware that my situation was relatively privileged compared to many others. Despite this, it had a profound impact on my life, shaping my politics, ethics, and sense of community.

A Different Perspective

Living in a wealthy town surrounded by people who had never faced financial struggles made me realize how their experiences influenced their views on money and politics. For them, money was a safety net, allowing them to take risks and experiment with their lives. In contrast, those living with financial insecurity were often forced to play it safe, fearing the consequences of making a wrong move.

Breaking Down Stereotypes

I’ve often wished that those who demonize the poor could understand what it’s like to walk in their shoes. The stereotypes of lazy people wanting handouts are far from reality. Over 75% of welfare recipients have jobs, and being poor is not a choice, but a circumstance that people desperately try to escape.

A Glimpse into the Reality of Poverty

A Reddit thread recently caught my attention, highlighting the things people only understand when they grow up poor. It’s not a definitive guide, but it’s a powerful reminder to approach these issues with compassion and empathy. Here are a few striking examples:

• Fear of answering the phone: Bill collectors and debtors often called, making every ring a source of anxiety.
• Daydreaming about luxuries: Looking at catalogs and dreaming of having things you couldn’t afford, only to have your parents notice and ask if you wanted something for Christmas.
• Buyer’s remorse: Feeling guilty about spending even small amounts of money, fearing that you might need it someday.
• Forgetting to want things: Growing up in a situation where you couldn’t afford things, you eventually stop asking for them, even when you have the means.
• Eating unconventional meals: Making do with what you have, like ketchup sandwiches or microwaved bologna.

These stories humanize the statistics and remind us that poverty is not a personal failing, but a complex issue that requires understanding and support.