Letter From a Struggling Mother

Hello, My name is Donna Ledesma . I am moved beyond words by the comment posted by Frank. I am one of the many Americans that stuggle and wonder if tomorrow I will be one of the homeless. Every day I cry at least once, then I must every ounce of strength I have left to push forward and keep going. I have seen my share of failure, success and heartaches. The lessons have been harsh and humbling. I currently live rent free in my deceased fathers rent house. And I wonder if my mother will have to sell it so you can pay her finances. I have warm water to bath and gas for cooking, but no electricity. At night, like a ritual, I light my candles and study for my state exam. Then I listen to the radio and read a book. If a friend or family member hands me a $20.00 dollar bill, I consider buying a few more candles, batteries for my radio and the cheep noodles for breakfast and cans of soup for dinner. I know that I am a woman and their are government assisted programs. I'm afraid my pride has the better of me. I am determined to rise above poverty and succeed at creating a business. I don't know how exactly, but I will find a way. I am single and afraid of living my life alone for the rest of my life. I am an attractive woman, but I often think, "What man is going to want a woman who has nothing to offer?" My sons looked to me for advice and strength. I hope that they will remember the best I have to offer and not the worst. As humans we have our faults, mine is "pride". Most would say, you have pride when you have to ask for government assistance, but no pride in accepting charity. I say, "I don't see it as charity, I see it as help." It can be embarrassing and humiliating when you ask for assistance. People ask personal questions and even treat you less then human. I am an educated woman and would like to be treated with respect. In regards to our society, I feel it is time for the little guy to be the victor. Big businesses are falling because their greed. Even they have to tighten their wallets. In closing, though America is founded on great corporations, its nice to see that even the mighty fall. Its a humbling expericence for us all. So David and Frank, thank you for encouraging me to be a better, stronger person. As they say, "It is always darkest before the dawn." And dawn is surely coming! Merry Christmas and God Bless

December 9, 2008 | Donna Ledesma (Loveroses24@hotmail.com)