There were many people who contributed to the growth of my childhood. Many provided for me and saw that I was taken care of. I had many teachers that made sure they provided me with the best education. I had tons of family members that made sure I was safe and grounded. Unfortunately I couldn’t write about all but the most special five people to me are: Anita my mother, my grandparents Ann & JR, aunt Greta and Mrs. Gray
MY MOMAnita my mom can sometimes be a loving and sweet person. She protected me in every way there was while going up. She made sure I was well taken care of, sheltered, clothed me and taught me how to be the woman I am. My mom became a single mother when I was about 12 years old when my parents divorced. I remember times when she was unable to buy the things we wanted, but she made sure she provided us with the things we needed. My mom taught me that women can survive alone. Although I went without my many wants, I still thank my mom for bending her back to making a better life for her girls.
JR & Ann my grandparents I thank God for having these special people in my life. Growing up I sometimes hated that my grandfather JR was a preacher. He made sure we were in church growing up. Thanks to my grandparents I am able to understand the religious aspects of life and I’m so thankful for it. When my mom was unable to provide for us, we could always ask them and no matter what, my grandparents made sure we received it. My grandparents made sure that each grandchild was up to part in school with education; if we were applying ourselves they gave us allowances. My grandmother showed me how to be a wonderful wife and take care of my family. Watching her cater to my grandfather and prepare meals, cleaning and ironing showed me the responsibilities I should follow by now.
AUNT GRETAGreta my aunt has always been a role model in my life. When I was little, I always said I wanted to be like her. My aunt raised two boys as a single mom, worked two jobs and received a bachelor’s degree. My mom lacked a degree unlike my aunt so I always said if my aunt could maintain the difficulities of life, I could do the same. Now I’m pushing further than my aunt and trying to receive my master’s. Greta was my childhood tutor who helped guide me back on track when I was losing sight. She was pretty tough. Slacking was not allowed; she treated me like I wasn’t family. I considered that tough love.
Mrs. Gray was my childhood babysitter. Mrs. Gray lived right down the street from my grandparents. I had so much fun at her house. We use to bake things together and watch movies all the time. I visited her on days when I didn’t have to. She used to pay me to paint her toe nails which was so much fun. She loved the kids she saw after very dearly. She looked out for our best interest. Any activity we did she made it educational and fun.
My mother continues to impact my life guiding me. Whenever I face an obstacle in life I seek my mother for advice.
My grandparents continue impacting my life by assuring that I live a Christian life. I still attend church regularly and have grown closer to God over the years.
My aunt still impacts my life by now raising her two young grandbabies and going back to school at age 40 to be a funeral director. It gets rough with me attending school with a one year old, but once again my aunt situation inspires me that I can succeed.
Mrs. Gray is no longer here, she passed a few years ago. I remember visiting her before she passed and she told me Andre’ (that’s how she pronounced my name.) you have to come back and see me, but bring Nita (my sister under me) back with you. About a week later she passed. I miss her so much. I wish she was still here to see how mature I have grown and see my family that I’ve created. Her memories are still with me.
