In 2020, I self-published my first book, “Her Heart Song: Poetry and Short Stories of a Healing Heart.” This book covers various topics, including mental health and poverty and their effects on the fictional character Eliza.
I believe poverty can have many negative effects, especially for kids growing up in it. In this first prose, titled “Poverty,” Eliza is forced to reckon with the state of her single mother, siblings, and herself – homelessness.
Poverty can have many effects on those who find themselves in it, from shame to poor mental health. But, as this story and poetry elicit, it can also develop within those who lived it a resilience unmatched by many.
I used “Poverty” to describe a state of being, but also a state of mind. Here are three lessons to be garnered from this chapter that I believe are helpful to consider:
When all else fails, look at what you have
In this brief prose, Eliza can find her stability – her mom. Even when her stability is shaken, she is comforted by her mother. There are times when the carpet is ripped out from under us and we find ourselves in uncontrollable circumstances. In such circumstances, grab hold of what security you have. A mother, father, sibling or friend. Find comfort in those people and things that make you feel like home.
Poverty is more than a lack of money
The state of poverty affects more than our wallet. It affects our physical health, our mental health, and fosters addictions (as also seen in this book). The reprecussions for the character and for so many like her have lasting effects. From this story, however, another type of poverty emerges, and that is an impoverished state of mind.
A “poverty mindset,” to me, has everything to do with how you see things. Are you hopeful that things will change? Are you operating from a state of abundance – grateful for the good things you have? Or are you empty inside?
The greatest wealth of all
In this chapter, the character finds glimpses of hope – both in her mom and in her faith. When you can find hope and find treasures even in the midst of lack and poverty, that is, I believe, the key to developing resilience inside of you.
As we look at the streets around us, it is not hard to see the negative effects of homelessness and poverty. I hope this blog post (and book) helps in some way.
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If you would like to purchase the book, you can find it here on Amazon or email me at izzylala83@gmail.com for more options.