Why I Had to Make a Change?

It took me years to really hone the skill of saying no. I would spend my next paycheck before it arrived. Then I would become so frustrated when I simply could not afford anything. I thought, man, I am terrible at budgeting. The truth was that I lacked discipline, YES. However, I also lack a sufficient income. My husband and I at the time had a combined income of $48,000 with 4 children. That $48000 was eaten up by healthcare, which was $8400, and taxes. Our checks did not have much left after all of the deductions.  

We knew something had to give. Although I am bi-racial, both black and white, I cannot help but to realize how the black race really does not trust other black people. Are we subconsciously programmed to doubt people of our race and trust a “white” person? Or is this something that started happening because we were betrayed in some way by a parent or relative of the black race?  

I have a strong desire to help people, and I feel an even stronger pull to help the black community change its mindset. This is in no way saying that this is the only race that needs help, but this is my own desire to do for a community that is hindered by our internal belief systems.  

Just the other day, I heard a lady on one of my favorite radio stations say that she would do what she had to do, even if it meant taking out a payday loan. She said it, laughed, and even mentioned that this is what we do. All the while, I was teaching my students why they should stay away from a loan that has a 300% interest rate. What are we teaching our children, our friends, our people?  

I love people of all backgrounds. The most important thing there is in this world is “love.” God’s love is proof of how important this thing is. I am looking at the stats, and I see where the gap is, and it is in the black community. 

 I was raised on my black side, spending most of my years in an extended family household with my grandmother and grandfather, a pastor. They provided us with many values and skills to help us be better each generation. However, there was a cycle that continued to repeat itself, and I wanted to see it for what it was. I would never blame my parents or grandparents for this because they gave us all they could. If they knew what they needed to teach us, this would not have happened. But I will forever blame myself if I do not BREAK THIS GENERATIONAL CURSE! When you know better, you do better. We must help our people like Moses. 

To the lenders: “LET MY PEOPLE GO.” This we must also say to our corrupt mindsets.