Family Experiences

 FAMILY RELATIONS 

OCTOBER 9, 2021

03
Family Experiences

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Jocelynn Linton

Hello, hello again lovelies! This week, my family relations class covered a very interesting topic. We talked about different classes in America. The question posed was, “Is there a caste system in the states?” 

While we may not have one set in stone, is there one ingrained in the subconscious of every US citizen? An interesting idea. Many people born into wealthy circumstances are often blessed with more connections and opportunity simply because of their origins. In contrast, those born into poorer circumstances find it difficult to rise above their surroundings. I am NOT saying that it is not possible, or that it hasn’t been done. 

For class I had the opportunity to watch a few episodes of the series People Like Us. THey followed the heartbreaking story of a mother named Tammy. Tammy lived in the humblest of circumstances with her four children. They had a small trailer surrounded by trash. She walked 10.5 miles to work every day because she owned neither a car nor a license. She worked very long hours and came home to children who (at the time) did not appreciate nor validate the sacrifice she was making for them. It was heartbreaking to watch her slave away with little to no reward. Much later, the show did a follow up on Tammy and her family. Tammy was still working at the same fast food joint, and was still walking to work every day. Her eldest son was jobless and recovering from drug addiction. Her Second eldest had dropped out of high school to raise his daughter. Tammy talked about feeling stuck. All she had ever wanted was to finish her education and become a school teacher. She said the only time she ever felt free was when she was walking to work. “I feel like I’m free when I’m walking…I feel like a bird.” Was Tammy's remarks. 

There were also videos that showed a very different perspective from the “other side”. It mentioned that those who came from wealthy families and backgrounds often had a very contrasting experience. 

Tammy was looked down on by those around her, even though she was working herself to the bone. The wealthy featured in many of the videos were admired, looked up to, and lusted after simply because of their wealth and stature. This shows how quick people are to make assumptions based simply off of outward appearances. 

My mother came from beyond humble circumstances. Her mother worked all day every day to provide for her and keep her fed and clothed. But it was never easy. SO my mother did the best thing she could. She focused hard on school and sacrificed to stay on top of things. She graduated at 15 and went to a secondary school before coming to the united states to learn English and further her education at BYU Provo. She continued to work hard and eventually met a great man who she was able to marry and settle down with. Hard work and diligence is a principle both of my parents never failed to teach us. And what’s better is that they led by example. My mother always made sure that I knew, no matter my circumstances, I can rise above. 

However, how valiant your aspirations are, your accomplishments will not be long lasting, without God. God plays a key role in the success of any family. 

One thing to keep in mind are these two mindsets. There’s a poor mindset and a rich mindset. No matter where you are in life, your mindset dictates the outcome. Having a poor mindset will either keep you poor, or make you poor very quickly. On the other hand, maintaining a rich or growth mindset will enable you to grow and learn from things that come y0ur way, and then better yourself and in consequence your surroundings.