I struggled because I had a baby to care for. There was no “welfare” then, so I had to work or we would go hungry. About the time he turned nine, welfare became available, but it was shameful to me that I had to depend on it.
I wasn’t able to rent a house or take out a loan and even got denied a job because I was divorced. I’m so glad those day are over! My son never knew how many meals I went without so he could eat. He still doesn’t.
But I wouldn’t trade a day of it, as it helped me remember that I was worth something more than a label.
I hear you. And talk about trying to get a job when you’re pregnant? Lol!