Something I Never Saw Coming

I never thought in my wildest dreams I would experience what it was like to have real and painful hunger. My family and I have never been wealthy, but we didn't ever not have enough each month either. That is until this past year.

I sink deeper and deeper into this debt hole. My income, which was once plenty, now can't feed my kid, my dogs, and myself. I have had to get creative to avoid seeing the disappointment on my loved ones' faces.

My Best Efforts to Keep Us Afloat

I became an extreme couponer, a semi-decent gardener, and a master at turning practically nothing into a meal. I got a second job and then a third. I applied for all the government assistance offered for the first time. I spend at least an hour a day scouring the internet for deals and other money-saving ideas.

It's Still Not Really Even Enough

Despite my best efforts, I cannot seem to prevent this hole from getting deeper. Every month that goes by, I sink a little more because the money coming in does not cover the money going out. I was on the verge of breaking down and giving up just the other day. That is, until my baby came up to me while I was crying my eyes out.

My Wake Up Call

She said to me, "Don't worry, Mommy. If it would help, you can have all my savings." As she said this, she held out her piggy bank to give to me. That was all I needed. She snapped me right out of my self-pity.

The next day, I had a couple of hours available, so I got an outdoorsy friend to teach me how to catch fish. Luckily, I live in a rural area where I can do that. Next, I will learn to hunt. I will do whatever it takes to keep the one I care about fed and healthy.

More Resilient Than We Know

No matter what tomorrow brings, I know that I will find a way to get through it. I will remember the bright side of every experience I endure. As a people, we have become so accustomed to comfort and convenience. I plan to take advantage of this strengthening. I thank God every day for my family and the blessings we do receive, knowing that there is a plan—even if I'm not in on it.