the bad times

I'm sorry =( That sounds terrible. But I've been through similar ordeals. My mom was abused by both of her x-husbands, than left to raise 5 kids on her own. She was working part time, and going to school to be a nurse. If it weren't for food stamps, we wouldn't have been able to eat! All 5 of her kids lived with her in a three bedroom apartment, that she could hardly even afford. It was terrible! Although things aren't great right now, things are so much better, and only getting better. She remarried, and this time is truly in love. They struggle every day to work and take care of the kids, but at-least they have jobs, a house (although it's rental, it's still a step up from apartments and trailers) and most importantly, love. I've also noticed a stronger character in myself and my other siblings. We never ask for much. As a matter of fact, it's Christmas, and we hardly got anything. Not one of us complained, we're all extremely happy, and having a good time! Presents weren't the hi-lite of today. Also, I feel more fulfillment buying for other rather than receiving. I never expect anything, ever. I thank my poor past for that. It's strange to be happy with some of the things that we've been through, but it's made me into a stronger person. And it also encourages you to work harder and avoid the same mistakes your parents made. I don't know how many spoiled children I've seen that are never grateful for anything! My cousins got what all of my siblings wanted, an x-box 360 with rock band. They played it once or twice, than never touched it again. They didn't care, they already had everything! If we were to get something like that, we would value it, and love it.