So many have called me, brought me treats and homemade bread (which, to me is a treat almost equal to chocolate chip cookies), cleaned my kitchen, visited me in my prison, commented on my blog, taken my little boys and run all my birthday errands. You have no equal in all the world.
My friend Dawn took my three little boys yesterday, and, along with her two little boys, partied at McDonald's for lunch. That was wonderful in itself. But as she was leaving, she offhandedly said, "Oh, I read this book yesterday. You should read it."
So I did.
All I can say is, "Now that's some food for thought."
I am one of the members of the conservative right. Does that disclosure surprise you? One of those people that believes that if you work hard enough, then you can change your life. Almost always. Homelessness is a result of drug abuse, alcoholism, mental illness, laziness, stupidity, abuse of the welfare system or some wacky combination of all of the above.
This book may have opened my eyes somewhat. After the first few pages, I was forced to reread the cover and summary, reminding myself that this was non-fiction. Could this really happen? People live like this? And their children grow up to live productive, "normal" lives?
But what really surprised me was the intelligence level of the parents, who obviously suffered from alcoholism and an undiagnosed bipolar disorder. Taught their children to read books without pictures before they were five. Masters of physics and astronomy. A fine artist who looked for free concerts and art exhibits in New York City, all while living below the poverty level or on the streets and refusing federal welfare.
And the level of love their daughter has for them, despite their faults. Despite her embarrassment and desire to never live like them.
I'd love to have you all read it and tell me what you think. It's definitely food for thought. And a little introspection and evaluation the next time you see someone begging on the streets.
Epiphany #68--Income and financial stability aren't always an accurate gauge of brilliance.
I read this book a few years ago and loved it. It's not a particularly uplifting book but it sure makes you think about things in a different way. Seeing your review makes me want to read it again!
ReplyDeleteSure, I'll give it a read. Sounds interesting.
ReplyDeleteGlad your friends are taking such good care of you. It's good that you have a support group like you do!
OK so watching american idol...and seeing Tucker the other night...David and him remind me a lot of each other!! Tucker has grown up so much!!
ReplyDeletethat was Jacquie by the way...again I did it again!!
ReplyDeleteIt is such a good book. First, you wonder, how can those people be such crappy parents? And how does one get over that?
ReplyDeleteThis is one of my favorite books. I read it two years ago...I think I'll read it again. I agree, it was very eye-opening.
ReplyDeleteGlad to know so many great people are taking care of you! Wish I lived closer so I could stop by.
HA! Loved Tucker's comment on my blog. Your boy is the kind of kid that made me want to teach school.
(He could also be the kind that pushes a different kind of teacher straight to retirement....JUST KIDDING, sorry, I couldn't resist!)
I read it a few months ago and enjoyed it. Definitely makes you think, doesn't it?
ReplyDelete