Written by Via

I was born into poverty. My destiny was written on the faces of my relatives and my neighbors. I was poor, black and living in the projects. Every day I was reminded of what my life would become.

low angle shot of an old apartment building exterior with worn out paint
Photo by Aleksandar Pasaric on Pexels.com

Unwed motherhood. Unfinished education. Unmarried with a house full of kids. Getting abused in one failed relationship after another. Waiting for the guv’ment check. I was just supposed to accept this as my life.

neon signage
Photo by Ivan Bertolazzi on Pexels.com

EXCUSE ME!? Whose life is this anyway? What about my dreams? What about my goals?

I TRIUMPH OVER TROUBLE

Everything around me was supposed to convince me that this was “ doing okay for a black woman”. All around me, my friends had dreams of being declared disabled to get a check. Some friends wanted a man with a good job, (not a good job themselves). Some were creative in their efforts to live off someone, anyone, a relative, a really bad relationship, etc.

I TRIUMPH OVER TROUBLE

Then someone came into my life that began to show me a different outcome. I was introduced to a world outside my backyard. I played tennis, but not very well. I went swimming and roller skating. I COULD choose a different life! Of course, I made some mistakes along the way. I did have a baby before marriage while in high school. BUT, I graduated from high school 4 months early. I moved from the projects and broke the cycle of physical abuse, limited education, and failed relationships.

I TRIUMPH OVER TROUBLE

I have traveled! I have a degree! I married a man who was a wonderful husband and father! I have children who give me joy and make me proud! I owned a home in Oklahoma! I have loved fiercely! Lived independently! Lost the greatest loves and friends I have ever known! 💔

My biggest dreams have come true with hard work, faith, determination, and support. I missed some opportunities. I stumbled through some places that I made harder. I ducked and ran when I should have stayed. But….

I TRIUMPH OVER TROUBLE!!!

I know my sisters have their Triumph Stories. Let us hear about your journey. Comment. Like. Share. Remember…you can always call your sister! 💕

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