Gregory's Server@hosford42 I still don't know how my parents did it. Working odd jobs plus finding the time to apply for government programs plus working in a community garden that was essential for putting healthy food on the table, and canning the excess so we'd still have healthy food in winter.
I only get a taste of it when I'm unemployed: suddenly my checking isn't free, I can't pay off my credit cards every month, no health care spending account, no tax breaks, deferring medical care βtil later.β That's, like, nothing, comparatively.
@alameth There was a period while I was growing up when we ate beans and white bread for every meal. I remember being yelled at and shaken by my dad because I accidentally broke the last sliver of soap in half during my bath. Poverty really sucks.