devantheimpaler
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re: the guy getting $41 in the mail and the comments asking him how he has internet if he's so poor
Sorry if the way I cropped this bugs you, I wanted it to be easy to follow.
glitteryladybug
Let's give it up for the parents doing whatever it takes to provide for their children
TheYaksAreUnhappy
As a guy who's brother has autism, that one really got to me. These are not my usual feels. That makes me fucking sick.
nevertickleasleepingdragon
I liked reading this. As a middle class kid, some people ask how I get so much stuff (technology mostly) and the truth is (1/2)
nevertickleasleepingdragon
that I always give something else up and/or save up for it
MadMart
This is important, and I want people to see it. +1
whoputthebop
It is also of note, that at a certain level of poverty, you can still occasionally afford nice things and need major aid.
whoputthebop
The 200 for that ipad probably couldn't have gotten a job, or somehow been better invested, and maybe your kids playing some angry birds in
whoputthebop
their relatively shit day isn't the worst thing in the world.
StabbyAlligator
I was on hard times last year and people complained about the smartphone I got for Christmas the year before. Fuck them.
ralthiel
I don't think there has ever been anyone I have wanted to force choke more than that asshole neighbor.
youdownwithOCbyOP
I'm far below the poverty line. I have an iPad and iPhone because my brother loves to always get the newest gadget. I get his hand me downs
sanguinecupcake
Yep, i got hand me downs from friends too when they got better ones. ThenI get nasty looks at the grocery store for having them.
thatwilldopig
My old dumb phone broke on my 30th birthday last year after 6 mos unemployed. I had 1 free upgrade left and the verizon guy gave me 1/2
thatwilldopig
a refurb iphone4 for free. Even the $30 activation was a ton, but I needed it. I got "how can you have an iphone if you're broke?!" 2/2
szepasszony
People say 'well pawn them then!' Lets see them pawn the gifts they get from their family.
Sinus23
What would you get for an used Ipad or an Iphone which are not the latest models in a pawn shop? 5 meals and a sad feeling?
szepasszony
Exactly. And you'd have to explain that your folks. Some people don't let on that they're struggling.
arcspace
Shit like this used to be one of the reasons I thought about killing myself every night when I was a kid =/ Taught me to hate people too.
szepasszony
Glad to hear you didn't. Hopefully now you fight against bastards like this.
papasmurf1118
That's why I think these posts are so important. I think they can create empathy in people
sckgrl79
My mom used to win radio contests for gift certificates to restaurants so we could go out to eat, or sometimes just so we could eat.
2L8I1
"The only time you should look in your neighbor's bowl is to make sure that they have enough" - Louis C.K.
Erutaron
Also known as - 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' This has been around a while, but we forget it so easily. :(
lenomdeplume
Wow, is Louis related to Mahatma?
HowDoIInternet
My dad (although he never did so in public) always ridiculed what he called "hand outs". Sorry, OP and anyone else I grew up resenting 1/2
HowDoIInternet
It was purely out of ignorance. As an adult, and after reading things like this, I at least have a small understanding. I hope all is well.
graywacke
When my father passed away, I received some social security as a child. The documents suggested that some of it be spent on entertainment >>
graywacke
so that I could stay mentally healthy and happy. It wasn't a lot, but people need games and toys to help stay sane when things are rough...
sanguinecupcake
Absolutely, I don't think a lot of those conservatives factor in that "escapism" is often the only hope of relief from poverty we're allowed
MosDeaf
That is true for general budgeting advice as well. Always plan to spend at least a little on something fun.
thatwilldopig
Seriously. Being poor is all consuming and controls everything. Breaks from that are absolutely necessary. I eat out more than I should.
Cookieconqueror
God, that was sad and moving. It's sad how people judge you by what they think you shouldn't have.
straightovideo
I signed in just to upvote this comment. Well put.
andaleandalearribaarriba
I love your comment.
UnaLagrenade59
So I should sell my phone which I use for emergencies and to keep in touch with people and contact work?
gobananasgo
It's sad how we live in a society that demonizes the poor while catering our laws to the rich.
IloveUimgur
OMG YES
sanguinecupcake
Socialism never took root in America because the poor see themselves not as an exploited proletariat but as 1.2
sanguinecupcake
temporarily embarrassed millionaires. -John Steinbeck
IMadeAnAccountJustToWriteThis
American optimism. We all think that we'll get rich some day.
btrain5489
It's not optimism. It's stupidity. It's being innumerate. It's mathematically impossible for everyone to be rich.
Dispari
Oh, the powerful know that. But they also know they can control people by telling them if they don't succeed they didn't try hard enough.
IMadeAnAccountJustToWriteThis
We don't think EVERYONE will get rich. Just ourselves. That's optimism.
ThatActuallyGuy
As someone raised in the upper middle class, this has pissed me off more than anything else on this website. I remember having to [1/2]
ThatActuallyGuy
defend someone because he thanked someone on here then got crucified for not selling off an old Xbox 360. Total bullshit.
Dragaroth
although there have also been a few people caught on here bullshitting their sob stories -- just to give both sides
theseventh
Exactly. We have hundreds of DVDs. They're 95% gifts or ebay/second hand. We tried to sell some to raise money: about £1 each. Worthless.
theseventh
So it looks like we have tons of 'nice things', but the actual value of selling them tiny. And when you run out stuff to sell...?
TheDrunkenSnowWhite
When you run out of stuff, you're right where some people think you should be; it's terrible that people WANT others to be miserable.
TrexHUGS
People really underestimate how much selling your stuff costs... I had to sell my mothers wedding ring to pay for food. I got $47
TheDrunkenSnowWhite
*Hug* I'm sorry you had to do that. Surviving takes a real toll on people, I wish more people understood that.
TrexHUGS
It was gold too, not a cheap ring... That's just how it goes
StabbyAlligator
You never get enough money like that. Keep it!
LoZCollector
How do we call ourselves 'civilized' when these are the conditions under which our poorest citizens live?
sanguinecupcake
Not only that, but in the first world too! When I was homeless I was so appalled at the way I was treated.
LoZCollector
It's disgusting that people honestly believe that your income determines your worth as a person.
greymouser7
2/2 When I have supported these people (family), I fed them, clothed them, housed them-all they wanted to do is get high and play videogames
ninjagaidensigma
There are a lot of people in this world who hate to see "their" (tax) money go to handouts, as they call them. (1/2)
BennyThe1980SomethingSpaceGuy
It's pretty easy to ignore when people at the higher end of the economy don't have to see it very often.
31415926535897932384626433832795028841971
From my personal experience, it's the middle class people who are the meanest.
btrain5489
It's people that are marginally better off that don't realize they're just a bit of dumb luck away from being the people they hate so much.
BennyThe1980SomethingSpaceGuy
My personal favorite are the lower income people that I know on assistance programs who complain about people that use said programs. (2/2)
BennyThe1980SomethingSpaceGuy
I was including them since they are higher than low class. I try to help out whenever possible, but I do know some people like this. (1/2)
btrain5489
It's not personal experience. It's how it is. Look at the national debate. It's not well off/rich people leading the charge against helping.
thatwilldopig
Becausse 1 accident, 1 job loss, 1 family death or illness and they are right there. Fear.
Corrodias
1) Actually, the way you put this makes me think of something else. That same similarity could lead to thinking, "I barely had to do
Corrodias
2) anything to get where I am, and this person is so similar. They must be doing something wrong. They must be wasting our gifts."
greymouser7
How many poor people do you support? How much do you make? Have you ever witnessed their priorities? 1/2
ninjagaidensigma
They then feel entitled to pass judgment on anyone who is living on welfare because it's after all, "their" money. (2/2)
btrain5489
1) Blame Mitt Romney for making the maker vs taker distinction in the last election.
btrain5489
2) But also ignoring the fact that our progressive tax system makes the vast majority takers... so we have takers bitching about takers.
LoZCollector
And this is why I'm against democracies; the government is a slave to the opinion of the public. And the public are IDIOTS.
axolotls
its easier to buy a tv than a house. easier to save for one "nice thing" than it is to pull yourself out of poverty
TonyS1974
Very well said!
axolotls
and its easier to live with that one nice thing than to struggle every day with nothing and still not be able to afford much better for it
thatwilldopig
The psychology of being poor is a bitch.
sanguinecupcake
That's the thing about poverty, you have to keep paying for rent, food, bills, but I can buy a nice computer and it'll last 8 years.
JeremyBass
it's sad cause I lived that poor childs life.. my ma made my clothes and all, but she saved up and bought me a diskman and 2 cds. love ya ma
thatslovely
You have a fine mother.
shadowchild2089
as someone who now works 70 hr weeks to fight back for every chance my parents sacrificed for me i now ashamed of myself. i know this feel.
HollaAtYoGurrrl
This needs to be made into a movie.
shaffeybaby
that'a kinda my mom's situation growing up, hand me down and hand made clothes. she had 2 barbies. she grew up, got a college degree, and
shaffeybaby
was very responsible financially. but my mom gave me so much & gives me so much bc she had so little & she never wanted me to want
shaffeybaby
i wasn't overly spoiled & were never upper class or even upper middle class, but she taught me to appreciate everything bc of her generosity
JeremyBass
the most generous are the one that have the lest, yet still give
hipsterdaenerys
I grew up with a single mother. We were probably below poverty but she made sure I never knew our money situation.
Eljews
You give that woman a hug right now! Or a call!
JeremyBass
talk to her all the time, been teaching here html/css which is the lest I can do to say thank you to her
DC1123
Just when I was about done crying over the ponies.
SalaSSin
When I lived with my mom, at times we had a bad situation, but she always did everything for me to be happy! Love my mom!
HungDaddy
Ye always have to love yer ma.
philbagg
Do I spot a fellow Dubliner?
Alisoneverland
AND if you think about it, it makes sense for people to save up their money to buy nice clothing so that they look good for interviews
sanguinecupcake
Excatly. I have three nice outfits that I keep in a bag so they never get ruined that I only wear for interviews. Bought new, not thrift
thatwilldopig
I have adult hormonal acne and the stuff I use costs about $40 to keep me clear. It would be nice to save that, but I'm job hunting.
Alisoneverland
exactly
Dragaroth
better tl;dr version: do not judge a person, until you know their story. do not generalize. do not be a jackass. your words have more power
Humpycamel
Basically don't be a dick :(
Memaleph
And this is true for everybody. You don't have to judge people, even if they have all the money they want.
LegenWaitForIt
I find irony in the combination of "TL;DR" and "Do not generalize" being in the same comment.
Dragaroth
yea, I guess, sort of... ALSO THIS WAS LIKE, TWO WEEKS AGO WHY DID YOU FIND IT.
LegenWaitForIt
I've been without internet for THREE WEEKS and I FINALLY HAVE IT AGAIN! :D I'm catching up now.
Dragaroth
CATCHING UP TO WHAT?! ARE YOU STALKING ME?
LegenWaitForIt
I'm stalking Imgur as a whole.
SomethingSomethingTraLaLa
Had a smartphone before we were broke; when my deployed husband called and I answered it while buying food with WIC... if looks could kill.
SomethingSomethingTraLaLa
So A'FUCKIN MEN.
devantheimpaler
yeah you're right, yours is better.
Dragaroth
thank you. just felt caps aint the time, no offense meant to yours
devantheimpaler
I totally see that, I like to lighten the mood a bit, but sometimes my enthusiasm is misplaced!
Mariokart64
When I was young, I saved every dollar I got for chores, bought a 100 dollar DS, saved for the 3ds, bought THAT is a bundle with a game, 1/?
Dragaroth
oh its alright. the world needs people who look to make things lighter, your hearts in the right place, bud.
Mariokart64
got a bunch more games, but I don't like to play much because A) i played and completed them all, or B) it's boring without a friend. 2/2
accujimmy
fuck that. It's easier to post your bigotry on Facebook without considering the scenarios that put people where they are.
[deleted]
[deleted]
Dragaroth
DID YOU JUST NOT READ MY SUMMATION OF THIS POST?! ITS NOT ME SAYING I DIDN'T READ, ITS ME SUMMARIZING FOR DOUCHE CANOES WHO WON'T READ IT!
Dragaroth
GOOD LORD, YOU COULDN'T BE BOTHERED TO SEE THE VERSION? DID YOU NOT READ TO THE THIRD WOOORD?! WAS THAT TOOO LOOOONG FOR YOU?!?!
RedStarBeograd
Thanks.
rob05c
The summary is great, but I think people need the full emotional gore to be shocked into realizing the truth.
Nerdfightergirl
Totally agree. This summation is like everything I've already heard. The actual stories had the shock factor, made me listen and learn
namelesscynic
Apparently "don't be a jackass" is too much to ask of far too many people.
Dragaroth
than you think, and it can damage people more than you can ever imagine. and no, having good things doesn't mean you can't be on welfare.
IJUSTMADETHEVOICEINYOURHEADYELL
STICKS AND STONES CAN BREAK MY BONES BUT WORDS WILL HURT FOREVER <3
Dragaroth
sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will leave scars in me that will never heal.
gnomeyismyhomie
I like this because there are people abusing the system, but then again there are people using it just to survive. I agree
vanishplusxzone
Most people are not abusing the system. It's not fair to treat everyone who uses it as abusers just because some do.
gnomeyismyhomie
i respect your opinion. this whole thing has been very eye opening, honestly.
CillianTheWriter
As someone who has no food in the fridge and holes in his shoes, struggling to get a job; Thank you OP.
AzaellexTytalus
Holes in your shoes? I hope you don't live somewhere cold. :-(
Dragaroth
about the holes in your shoes, this worked for me, at least: get duct tape, and cut it into strips, and make a criss-cross kind of grid over
Dragaroth
the holes. The shoes should be dry when this happens, and dry for the next few hours/days. Eventually, the glue from the tape will uber
Dragaroth
bond the tape to the shoes, giving you a fairly good fix to keeping those socks and feets dry
AnonymousBach
92% of people on welfare are seniors, the disabled, and the working poor.
opad
The adults. A huge amount of the benefits are for kids (often with single working poor mothers)
ItsyaboyGunny
However, the people that abuse, don't abuse it, they fucking rape the fuck out of it
AnonymousBach
Better the occasional misstep of excess charity than the alternative.
Thesinlesssinner
I'm on disability and my husband was on welfare to care for us both when he was unemployed. It barely was enough to keep one bill paid.
mezzidriel
Yeah, some people act as though welfare is a free ticket to the good life when in reality it doesn't even make ends meet.
vanishplusxzone
Right? It's so obnoxious. If people think living on welfare and foodstamps is such a sweet life, they should try it.
WholeWheatBacon
i think the other major category is children, able bodied working poor make up the smallest percentage of people on government assistance
accujimmy
How dare they have cell phones that hold their value enough that when the new one comes out you can sell the old and get the new for free?
fragtore
It's horrible that working isn't enough to support a life :/
kaffefilter
Being unemployed and in a "project" that's supposed to train me back to society; People have no idea how many shades of grey there are (1)
kaffefilter
I suffer with severe anxiety every day. I WISH I could work. I WANT to work. Nothing is more defeating than having to just sit at home. (2)
patchoulisandwiches
my father is a disabled senior who does NOT collect welfare, lucky for him. He hates seeing his peers struggle in the system. It's sad.
nyudo
Do you know what 'disabled' means for the purpose of collecting welfare? Look up what disability fraud is, because they go hand in hand.
AnonymousBach
Is there fraud? Yes. And is there more than liberals and progressives want to believe? Yes. But it's never as prevalent as people think.
nyudo
I worked in a grocery store for 7 years. It's more prevalent than anyone wants to believe.
AnonymousBach
Can you remember all the people in those 7 years who bought cucumbers and celery but not cereal on a Thursday?
nycnewyork
The 'working poor'?
ChipNoir
I'm a disabled person, making me unqualified for most low-income labor jobs. If I ever lose my job, I need SSI to keep off the streets.
thatwilldopig
People who work fulltime yet still qualify. Often food service or large corp retail workers. There's a reason Walmart is so cheap.
BigBootyLiv
I am just genuinely interested now after reading this...because i see a lot of people with food stamps who have designer everything.
insufficientlymad
For people stuck in generational poverty buying designer items can be the difference between getting a job or a loan or assistance and not.
Elealyan
From my experience, you can do amazingly at thrift shops. I've had Betty Johnson dresses for $2 and Harajuku bags for $5. Just takes effort
dipity90
I saved up as much money as I could to get nice clothes when trying to get a more professional job. $100 got me a closet full thrift.
28fredt
that statistic sounds bull. where did you get that information?
AnonymousBach
CNN did a report a few weeks ago.
DissidentRage
CBO iirc
PantherCat
And like guns we only hear about those that abuse it.
FindingBeautyInNegativeSpaces
Amen
aguyuno
Bravo, PantherCat. Way to completely sidetrack a talk about Welfare to push your own agenda. Bra-fucking-vo.
lordsleepyhead
Chill out bro.
PantherCat
I was just comparing two things that are often debated and how we only hear the bad side.
PaperCl1p
He's drawing an obvious parallel in logic. Not that they are connected, but that if you can come to this conclusion the other should as wel
AMusingMurff
I'm pretty sure that those issues are completely separate. Also, no one can directly kill someone else by using welfare
AeonexAshaxei
They are separate but he was pointing out the statistical similarities. 2.97% gun crime for U.S. as of 2011. Gun violence is overhyped.
tarataqa
Except the part where PEOPLE DIE.
notasrelevant
What is the 2.97% in relation to? Gun ownership? If so, that's hardly the best deciding factor, at least on its own.
AeonexAshaxei
It's related to gun crime vs. all crime, except that statistic ignores demographics. So it's a very broad statistic.
MySecondAccount
Except for Estonia, the US has the highest gun violence rate of any developed country.
AeonexAshaxei
Other countries have higher violence with bombs, knives, axes, and so forth. If someone wants to kill another person, they will find a way.
AeonexAshaxei
People focus too much on this word "gun" and not the more important word, "violence". Economies and mental illness are the leading causes.
BigBootyLiv
I work in a grocery store and I feel like I see a lot of people who abuse food stamps. Can you pleas tell me where you got this statistic?
kennyken
You feel like you see a lot? You're definitely more credible than these stats.
AnonymousBach
CNN did a report about it a few weeks back. I do not have the exact link, but in answer to your question, I would point out a lot of (1/2)
AnonymousBach
people on social assistance now were not always so, and because they have designer things now doesn't mean they bought them yesterday.
BigBootyLiv
sometimes i see that people have like 3K left on their card. THAT pisses me off.
AnonymousBach
There are people who abuse it, but abusers always stand out. The average are always unremarkable and quickly forgotten
BigBootyLiv
Just can't blame people for wanting to know that their tax dollars are going towards a good cause.
minusone
Out of curiosity, what is "abusing" food stamps?
diss
I've seen people come in and buy about $30-$40 of candy bars on food stamps when I used to clerk at a gas station.
diss
While there's likely other circumstances at work? I can't help but feel that money would've been better put to actual /food/.
BigBootyLiv
being on food stamps when you are capable of supporting yourself.
minusone
Okay, not exactly out of curiosity. I think I'm ready to argue, but I'm genuinely curious what fs abuse is
SonicMonkeys
I've seen people buy unnecessary items (candy, etc.) with food stamps. It's really not for me, or anyone, to judge their situation though.
BunToaster
People who use foodstamps to buy 24 packs of Monster energy drinks, candy bars, and donuts from the bakery, instead of actual food.
minusone
For the record, donuts are actual food. I buy ice cream often, because I have a very high metabolism, and need a high calorie-per-$ ratio
minusone
I don't understand why, if someone is living on assistance, they should be living in extreme austerity. Bread and water only! Why?
Imthedroidyouwerelookingfor
And, unbelievably, US veterans.
AnonymousBach
Something like 2/3 of all homeless people are veterans. When you could get more reliable food and shelter in a POW camp, it makes you (1/2)
Laurelespp
A lot of veterans, its sad that after the ultimate sacrifice they made, they cant earn a living on their own.
SocietyOfSensation
Hey as long as we have veteran day to remember them, help them out and make a nice story on the news...once a year.
AnonymousBach
(2/2) wonder about the state of America's soul.
snuzzled
It disgusts me to no end to know that we have a fucking "working poor". Working people should be able to afford to, you know, LIVE.
AnonymousBach
I agree. If you're willing and able to work, you should be able to support yourself. Not in luxury, but not in poverty either. Alas.
Thesinlesssinner
I am on disability for serious joint problems. Every time I tell someone that, they say "You don't look sick, you're too young to be on(1/2)
rob05c
(2/2) for every privileged ass that belittles you, there's someone else like me who understands. I'm sorry we don't say it more often.
C8H10N4O2xlife
Wow, what an excellent sentiment. The reason "people" appear to suck so much is often bc the ones that feel entitled to judge are so vocal..
rob05c
Yep. Also a reason politics is so wonky. The fringe, on both ends, is so loud. People in the middle aren't, so the fringe is overrepresented
kryptonite93
With my cane, they think why would a healthy looking 20 year old have a cane he must he faking to many assumptions are running peoples lifes
kris9k
Just get a bong if you have joint problems dude :v
Thesinlesssinner
Normally smoking bud is how I treat it, because my meds don't always work. But I'm pregnant right now and can't.
yuyufan43
I'm on disability for 7 mental disorders. I get half of what I was making when I was able to work part time. I have over $4000 in (1/?)
yuyufan43
medical bills that will take me 4 years to pay from the money I get from disability. I hate being judged for it and people don't see (2/?)
yuyufan43
that disability isn't "free money". I'd rather be normal and able to work instead of crying everyday and not being able to get out (3/?)
yuyufan43
of the debt that my disabilities got me in in the first place. It's a vicious cycle and I get more depressed everyday. It's hopeless.
Fangride
When I was 14, I had a bad nerve issue that left me unable to walk for the majority of the year. One of my teachers was certain I was faking
Fangride
because he "saw me smiling" at lunchtime with some friends. It was absolutely infurating and disgusting to hear, from someone who was ill.
vanishplusxzone
Wow, so this teacher thought "don't be happy, ever!" Man... The people that are allowed authority over others.
Fangride
It was pretty obnoxious. He was constantly pestering me for Doctor's Notes when I was out of school, even though I turned them in every time
AzerilPridham
have a go at me for that but it's not my fault. I don't want to depend on my cane when I can still try to use my legs :(
rob05c
I wish everyone could see The Frogman's responses to hate mail, and the positive encouragement he gets. (1/2)
kryptonite93
Completely agree, I'm not even on disability and I have a serious knee injury, I get looks of disgust and disapproval for walking around...
Lyrabelle
I remember how being sick as a kid made me a monster to other children... as an adult, I'm just a wimp. I'm one of those people who 1/2
Lyrabelle
could get a job, but couldn't hold one down because of absences. It's like people didn't even get worse, they just put on a different face.
thesefeelingswouldbegoodwithpie
My dad prolapsed a disk in his back and hasn't been able to work for a year. I've been working 20 hours a week on top of school to save for
thesefeelingswouldbegoodwithpie
university. Yesterday a girl in my class told me that I shouldn't get an student allowance to help me next year (I live in New Zealand)
thesefeelingswouldbegoodwithpie
because I had a laptop and she didn't. The laptop was a gift from my granddad. I felt like crying.
MW904
About to go on disability myself for spinal stenosis, osteoarthritis, and a benign tumor on a nerve root.
JaciSpyker
I get that all the time. "You are just lazy." Oh yes, because I choose to be so far below the poverty line that I can not afford to eat.
ballisticburrito
Hell I got a lot of hate for being on unemployment a few years back. Boss railroaded me and got me fired, couldn't get another job, 1/2
ballisticburrito
WTF was I supposed to do? 2/2
Thesinlesssinner
disability, you don't deserve it because there's nothing wrong with you. When at 24 I can barely clean my house or walk my dog. People suck.
trialia
Agreed. I'm 27 and have up to a dozen joint dislocations per hour, per day. Because people can't see it, they treat me like dirt...
brikhouse2
2/2 .....I feel unworthy of it all on my own most of the time because I can't physically work for it.
stopthinkingiamaboy
I hear you, I'm 23 and am recently dealing with some medical problems. I can go on disability (1/2)
stopthinkingiamaboy
but the pain at work, or just waking up in the morning, sometimes seems easier to deal with then to tell people i'm on disability
JoDD
Mine was chronic back pain but is currently managed. I've been where you are and it is awful. My heart goes out to you.
brikhouse2
I'm pretty much in the same situation, and yes people do suck. I personally don't need people telling me what I do or don't deserve when
VeronicaDee
I had a friend who was only about thirty and fucked up his back really badly. He didn't qualify for disability because he was "too young."
misfitmess
Gentle hugs your way. I know what it's like to have an "invisible" disability, and people can totally suck.
Everyonesfavorite
Me too
Memaleph
The only thing you don't deserve is having health problems.
theinternetisascaryplace
And this is why I haven't even looked into my disability options to help get me through school. Yay invisible illness!
TheSGH
My girlfriend just got denied for disability because her disorder. Shes only 23 and everyone tells her she shouldnt have even tried 1/2
TheSGH
because she's too young and she can work. She has epilepsy and had a seizure at work once, hitting her head and having a concussion
missnurse
My sister has an invisible disability which affects her physical strength and endurance and causes constant pain. No one understands. (1/ )
missnurse
Even family members don't understand. I myself feel guilt because I didn't truly understand until I got older and learned more about it. (2/
missnurse
Don't let anyone push you around... get your documents from your medical specialists and tell the disbelievers to suck it! *hugs* (3/3)
3blkcatscvt
I love this blog; http://www.butyoudontlooksick.com/ and the spoon theory. It really helps people to understand, I think
LittleF0ot
Thank you for sharing this :) I have loved this blog for years and it got me through my lonely teen years
ninjagaidensigma
They should have this exercise in schools so kids learn early on not everybody has "limitless" amounts of energy or capability. Ty4 linking.
caprica7of9
Spoon theory has helped me explain to people why I'm not back at work of my illness is inside & I'm a make-up wizard so I always "look well"
Thesinlesssinner
I've read this before. It was incredibly moving to me. The looks people give me when I say I'm bedridden some days are sickening
captainredbeard
I have Ulcerative Colitis, and I have never had a good way to explain what it's like, now I do. People just don't understand how it hurts.
parabola
I know exactly what you mean. *hugs* <3
3blkcatscvt
I feel ya bro. I have chronic migraine, and unless someone's seen me when it happens, I feel like people just think I'm faking...
TheLastDuchess
I'm so sorry. I know how you feel; I have Lupus-caused spinal nerve damage and get some very dirty looks when I use my handicap tag.
elever
My mother has lupus and suffered from polio as a child (and has a handicap tag). The same thing happens to us! It's especially bad when
elever
when they see me get out of the car first.
TheLastDuchess
It's really frustrating, isn't it? I want to walk up to people and say "You know, if you're going to give me dirty looks, why don't you
whodathunkit
I'm on Disability here in Australia, I am on it for my PTSD/Anxiety/Depression and health issues...I am constantly told "get over it."
zigzagler
1/2 That kind of ignorance infuriates me. The brain is an incredibly complex organ, making it more like to just "get over" having something
ThisIsntWhoItWouldBeIfItWasntWhoItIs
I'm sorry to hear that. The invisible wounds are the worst because no one can see them so they think they're fake.
Or10nSharkFin
"When you can get over being an asshole, I'll get over "
MaryJaneAnn
I am incredibly familiar w all those- anxiety, nightmares, insomnia...it makes life no longer your own. I dated an asshat who would always 1
MaryJaneAnn
say the same, how I needed to just lay down & close my eyes at night, & would go to sleep, ect ect. Luckily for me, I've found someone 2
MaryJaneAnn
who loves&accepts me as is, will talk me thru panic attacks, who wants to learn more, who has never judged- I wish you best of luck w it xo
whodathunkit
Same for me, my bf puts up with my occasional outbursts of anger (which derive from my PTSD), I am very thankful to have him.
zigzagler
2/2 like liver failure. "Oh wow, internal hemorrhaging. Better get over it." Like you can just flip a magical wellness switch.
AzerilPridham
I have arthritis at 19, and I have a fold away walking stick just for balance. Sometimes I'll walk without it and sometimes I wont people
Thesinlesssinner
My heart goes out to all of you who are suffering. I am comforted by the fact I am not alone. I appreciate your kind words.
Jthechef
Disability is the way the government supports people who used to be in welfare programs, it keeps big % of people fed
GinnaKABOOM
I'm on disability for schizo-affective disorder. I caught shit so many times from my ex's friends. "You're smart. You're faking." (1/?)
GinnaKABOOM
"There's no way you're sick. Why not work?". I worked starting at 16. Every day I worked from 16 to 24, my ability to control myself (2/?)
GinnaKABOOM
And not kill myself or give in to my urges to kill others while seeing shit that wasn't there got harder. That's why I'm on SSI at 29. (3/3)
psychedelia
You sound just like my best friend. She worked for a while, but her mental issues got out of hand and people belittled her for "faking".
GinnaKABOOM
People assume being mentally ill also means mentally challenged and that we have to be both to be disabled. (2/2)
GinnaKABOOM
If we're not talking to a wall or mumbling about aliens, we're faking. If we're relatively intelligent, we're faking. (1/2)
nattilee
I think the saddest for me was as a small kid and someone said I didn't deserve anything for Christmas b/c I was poor. I really believed 1/2
nattilee
they were right and have never wanted anything for xmas since then. People ask what I want and think I'm joking, but I am really not. 2/2
paddythelion
Healthy enough to be on imgur = healthy enough to do some kind of work. There is work for everyone, regardless of disability/challenges.
ThatsTheWaySheGoes
So what do you propose for a stroke victim with complete left side paralysis? I.e. Me. Who can easily be out-typed by an able bodied person?
paddythelion
Not saying you don't work, but it's the principle of "oh my leg hurts so I can't work again. Ever." bitches who moan when they _can_ work.
Epicsigh
Sitting down in front of a computer hardly qualifies you for any kind of intensive labor, at least, none that are simple to get.
rchimus
This is upsetting. Its a view I had never thought to consider and it really upsets me now having felt this way towards people. Sorry.
thesnarkiestpuppy
(2) a great thing to change this way and be a new person with new views. Another great example:
dannybread
Citation? You know the old saying, "Trust, but verify."
ilovemrrogers
I'm actually crying right now. I never thought of it like this
justastudent
I have to say, I held a similar opinion to the Tumblr op. I'm glad I saw this.
Almainyny
(Continued) I now see that particular line of thinking isn't right. We shouldn't fixate on the nice things the poor have, but the things 2/3
Mynameiscatandilikedogs
what did you do??
meddlinpenguin
It's ok. It's often incredibly difficult to see past our own "logic" when it's wrong, but when we do...man, it's great.
1999eclipse
I admire that you have the courage to admit that you once felt like this. I am glad this post gave you a new perspective.
thesnarkiestpuppy
There is a great Heraclitus quote: "No man ever steps in the same river twice, for it's not the same river and he's not the same man." It's
AMusingMurff
The water's always changing, always flowing.....
vibrantlightsaber
Don't feel bad, there are plenty of people that abuse the system, and plenty that need the system. I would guess whatever you see more...
CommieGold
I have had hard feelings towards people that didn't understand gov. assistance. But, you saying this speaks volumes, thank you.
LADYBUGS
When I was a kid, we were really poor. My parents sold furniture to buy food as well as worked. They used WIC but other than that, they 1/2
LADYBUGS
2/3 didn't didn't accept outside help. I always had toys and books, even though we never really had nice things. From this example, I
LADYBUGS
would sell my things to provide food over cable TV or a phone. From my experience, that's what makes people rich.
slipperpimp
geting a little perspective can be a wonderful thing.
mmyessss
Me too :(
therewasnolifeorlovebeforeinternet
I once had a friend that was poor and would judge ME, get mad at ME, and make ME feel bad because I wasn't in the same situation. I knew
therewasnolifeorlovebeforeinternet
exactly where their paychecks were going, towards their iPhone and things alike. Sometimes shitty people are on both ends.
SageyWagey
Its okay. People act like people sometimes. Its unfortunate.
Almainyny
I agree 100%. At the very least, some small part of me made me think what the OP in this said. Not in the same strength, but even so...(1/2)
amagiciannamedgob
Congrats on being a good human. +1 and <3 to you.
thesnarkiestpuppy
(3) http://www.youaretrulyloved.com/enlightenment/the-buddha-teaches-a-lesson-on-forgiveness/
thatslovely
Doesn't it feel great though? This is what life's all about man :D
Darkholme
We're all human and we've all judged without knowing there were other reasons for something. Don't be too upset. You've learned a new thing!
ilikeriker
Thank you :]
TheMasterOfTheMechanicalStuff
50/50 on this, since i still feel that a lot complain about being poor who are not really poor, in denmark anyways. 1/2
TheMasterOfTheMechanicalStuff
2/2 just because you cant afford a big appartment,new mobile,car etc. doesnt mean you are poor.....people tend to forget.
MySecondAccount
When I was a kid, my mom skipped meals so she could afford to feed me... and we're not even that poor compared to many other Americans
brtnysea
I promise, poverty is real.
idontwannayoucantmakeme
I certainly can't and won't speak for everyone here, but on a personal level I accept your apology
chanieldoi
Honestly? Don't blame yourself. It's taught to us as a social norm depending on where you were raised. It's when you're old enough to be
chanieldoi
an independent thinker that your opinions actually matter. I'm glad you're accepting of this perspective instead of blindly defending
chanieldoi
your socially constructed views. The world has many perspectives, not just your own.
Almainyny
(Continued again) that they actually need. That's what we should see: not the things they worked their asses off to get.
ProudRussian
Answer to yourself, it makes your comments easier to read.
Almainyny
Fair enough. I've done both what I've done here as well as replied to myself to structure it, just never figured which way would be best.
ProudRussian
As far as I could see when I was lurking, answering to yourself is better and not frowned upon.
danabella
Upvote for seeing a different perspective. Sometimes all it takes is hearing it from the other side.
karlthatkillspeople
go you for admitting you were wrong. nobody's always right and you deserve a pat on the back for trying to improve :)
rehcamretsnef
lmao. TIL being "wrong" 4 times, with millions of examples of being "right" are entirely equal. phew. sign me up for that math class.
AllIHaveHadTodayIsLikeSixGummyBearsAndSomeScotch
Yes! Nobody's perfect, which makes the people that see their mistakes and change them the best persons on this planet.
JQuentinEvermann
This is all bullshit...these confrontations are made up to let these people feel like victims. Its what liberals do best.
ShawnzyJumpstheShark
Found the cynic
JQuentinEvermann
U really believe these stories? No man came spitting insults at those kids or confronted someone for owning a computer. Attention whores.
IamJacksEnigma
So what if this particular story is made up. Do you deny that people can have such experiences? The importance here is the realization that
JQuentinEvermann
It matters because it is untrue. If you want validation, earn it. If someone is unwilling to sell an item, they dont deserve charity.
JQuentinEvermann
It matters because it is untrue. If you want validation, earn it. Why are people entitled to nice things they havent earned?
IamJacksEnigma
That's easy for someone to say who's had everything handed to them since the day they were born. Take a trip to rural India or Detroit.
IamJacksEnigma
even poor people deserve nice things because nice things often help us validate ourselves. This is especially important for children who
IamJacksEnigma
have no control over their situations, but also for adults who have run into or started in an unfortunate situation.
MermanJack
Comments like yours help me feel like humanity might be getting somewhere.
Conflict
I think its also important to realize there are a lot of people messing with the system and to just not judge people one way or the other(1)
Conflict
and people are allowed to use food stamps to pay for the food which is overpriced and not as healthy as if they cooked it from scratch (3)
Conflict
based on what you can see on the surface. I worked as a door to door frozen food salesman(The Schwans company if anyone has heard of it)(2)
Conflict
that there is a cash portion that is supposed to be used for things that food stamps don't pay for. More than once I saw people buying (5)
Conflict
and people would spend all of their food stamp money on it then wonder why it didn't get them through the month. Part of food stamps is (4)
Conflict
things like Xboxs or TVs with their food stamp money and they would brag about it. They had as nice as stuff as I did and I was working(6)
Conflict
non-existent job and bought it. Stuff like that needs to be fixed.
Conflict
60+ hours a week. Only problem is that they get away with it because its not provable since its cash. They can say they saved up at their(7)
Blaaarhgasaurus
When my parents were on welfare, at a friends party a bunch of people were moaning about those "bludgers on the dole" (1/2)
Blaaarhgasaurus
Talking about people on welfare living on "their tax dollar". Mum had jack of it, and asked them if they wanted to trade places. (2/2)
fragtore
We should never judge people more unfortunate than us. "Laziness" is too easy a word to describe a complex situation. Most want work
perrfekt
I came from a poor family and understand this. I have a job that takes me into peoples homes on a regular basis. What upsets is when (1/?)
perrfekt
(2/?) the monthly bill for what they ordered is over $250/mo and the 2 tv's they have cost a total of $225/mo from the rent to own store in
perrfekt
(3/?) town. The proceed to tell me this, and how they are on section 8 and snap (govmnt paid housing and food stamps). Their children are
perrfekt
(4/?) medicare, and they don't work because they would lose their benefits. I know how important it is to have hope when poor, to get that
perrfekt
(5/?) one toy you wanted just one time. But for everyone in the house to have an iphone, a tablet, everyone has a cable box, the kids have
Zugswang
We often wrongly judge others by the snapshots we get of their lives, but we also have the capacity for amelioration. Good on you.
BookWeasel
Up vote for excellent vocabulary.
thatslovely
Amelioration is such a lovely word. Say it out loud with me. Mm.
AsAnAmerican
I'm impressed by you willing to admit you ever thought that way. I grew up on welfare and free food trucks with my mom and there is still
AsAnAmerican
A small part of me that dislikes it. But, this point of view couldn't be more true. Looking back I realize my mom had $500 a month.. 500. I
AsAnAmerican
Can't imagine only getting 500 biweekly, yet somehow she pulled it off. We never had a car until my senior year in high school, but it
AsAnAmerican
Never actually seemed like anything was missing like in these stories, so somehow I've ended up with both opinions.
notprtty
People ask me why I don't just sell the couple of things I have that might be worth something. It's because it's all I have to show (1)
notprtty
for ever having done anything with my life. And I don't want to sell that for a couple of bucks. I guess I'm a terrible person. (2/2)
sanguinecupcake
Even then, I could never sell my nice things for a full retail price, and now I'm out for just a few more weeks in the house?
Sinus23
I'm 35 and I still have a C64 that I got when I was 11. And it was used when I got it. Being poor makes you value the things you get 1/2
Sinus23
a little bit more. With the exception of people who worked really hard for what they get. That is about the same I guess. Peace.
sanguinecupcake
people just buy a new one cause they can in a year.
Sinus23
Yep I've noticed that too. After many years of always being behind on owning the latest technology I've become immune to their 1/2
Sinus23
Smart-ass comments on my gear ;P
sanguinecupcake
Upvote for the ultimate truth. I take care of my things so they last longer than the average. I've had my comp 8 years, and I know most
devantheimpaler
tl;dr: YOU DON'T KNOW MY LIFEEEEEE.
flounderflound
lol +1 for commenting this on your own post!
halfpint42
http://tressiemc.com/2013/10/29/the-logic-of-stupid-poor-people/ seems like something you'd be interested in reading if you haven't already
jdizzleforizzle
I... wow... I seriously need to reevaluate myself... I never thought... I mean it never occurred to me... I just... im at a loss of words...
saxdiver
That is excellent. More people should "walk a mile" in those shoes. Thank you.
rob05c
I have read it. It is good.
devantheimpaler
Thats a REALLY great read, thank you for that.
halfpint42
you're welcome; thanks for the post! they just seemed to jive so I wanted to share.
jamesllegade
Fuck this... save your money instead of buying a plasma and you might not have to eat rotten jello pops or whatever. Live below you means.
DrBuzzKill
This. If you need a TV get an old CRT one that's worthless, not a brand new one from Best Buy or whatever.
jamesllegade
I understand needing cell service and a phone in today's world... get the one they give you free with the contract... not the $500 iphone.
Spacetree
So... do you guys not get the concepts of "gifts" and "saving up" or "deals"? Or that even a couple of hundred dollars not spent isn't...
jamesllegade
2/2 Sell it, buy cheaper functioning one. Break the consumerism handcuffs.
Spacetree
going to pull them out of lifelong and generational poverty? Or that one or two high priced items can serve to alleviate clinical stress...
jamesllegade
"saving up" to buy a consumer piece of electronics with cachet is the act of someone in self imposed poverty. Someone gives it to you... 1/2
ronakbhatt
This has seriously changed my understanding of the way impoverished spend their money. Until now my thought was (1/2)
DisgruntledFerret
stolen by aliens to power their tractor beams, but now that I have recovered my thought I can learn things like this. (2/2)
interrobangcat
Hey hey hey. People like you are the reason Imgur is so hard to read some nights. Drunk me does not appreciate your tomfoolery.
opad
Sober me loves it. :)
ronakbhatt
"how irresponsible". This was seriously paradigm shifting for me. Thank you. (2/2)
iamagrocerybag
(...I just want to know how you thought, I'm not being hostile). Since I have been on the poverty line, I budget for every penny.
thatwilldopig
There is a whole psychological effect how poor people spend money. Immediate needs only until we crack and splurge to feel "normal".
btrain5489
2) then have the parents give the gifts as their own. As far as the kids knew the gifts came from their parents. I'm not the only one that
btrain5489
1) I used to mentor underprivileged kids. At Christmas time I'd talk to the parent(s) about what the kid needed/wanted and get a few of them
iamagrocerybag
Why irresponsible? Did you believe that poor people are unable to manage their finances, splurging money everywhere? (Serious question...) 1
ronakbhatt
those on or below the poverty line dont deserve nice things, but i always felt the money could be better spent. I didnt think about how (4)
ronakbhatt
waste money on soemthing like that when there are things you need that you pay for now". this just opened my eyes to the fact that (2)
ronakbhatt
who is poor also has desire to have nice things. to not JUST spend their whole income on food and shelter. it wasnt that i felt that (3)
ronakbhatt
i guess you could say that. my response when i would see someone on welfare with an iphone and a prada bag was usually "why would you (1)
ronakbhatt
they must feel ostracized by not being able to buy the new nice thing (end)
iamagrocerybag
Thanks, interesting to hear another point of view :)
killereggplant
Another point to consider is that people will treat you better if you dress nicely and have nice things. That pair of nice shoes (cont)
killereggplant
could be the difference between you and the person interviewing for the same job with the same qualifications who wore cheap sneakers.
btrain5489
3) did stuff like that. I have many friends that purchase gifts for underprivileged kids... Makes you feel good and they could use a break.
Naseth
Erk, I remember trying to do something like this, only the parents took the stuff from the kids and sold it, which made me despair a little.
killlatwix
Yes because apparently poor people don't deserve to have nice things. They should just live in the mud and be miserable forever.
TheMasterOfTheMechanicalStuff
well.. in denmark people tend to complain about being poor just because they cant afford the norms of society..car, new tv,new phone etc.
TheChinamanIsNotTheIssue
How to stay poor forever: waste money on 'nice things' you can't afford instead of getting your ass out of poverty.
ninjagaidensigma
Riiiight... so if I don't buy nice things anymore I get job offers until I vomit, right? Because that's what you're implying.
TheChinamanIsNotTheIssue
It's amazing that you can't even connect the dots here.
thedevil
If you can't afford necessities you don't have the right to luxuries. Tv, internet etc are luxuries.
compulsivemastication
What a fucking disgusting sentiment that is. Shame on you.
killlatwix
The internet and cell phones are staples of life today. You cannot hope to get and maintain a job if you cannot stay connected. Try it.
SpikeCanKickLestatsAss
But is internet really a luxury anymore? People need it to research/apply for jobs, find food banks. And you can't go to school now without
SpikeCanKickLestatsAss
NEEDING the internet on a frequent basis.
ninjagaidensigma
An internet subscription is like having a phone in the 80s. It's not a luxury anymore unless you pay a hefty premium for unnecessary speed.
SpikeCanKickLestatsAss
That is my thought exactly. There are still very cheap options for internet. You can do what needs doing, but it's going to take a while.
thedevil
Bull you can't. Public libraries provide that service. Applications can always be done in person or on paper. It's a luxury.
SpikeCanKickLestatsAss
The public library isn't always reliable. The one in my town burned down and for quite a while there wasn't one.
thedevil
If they are at school then facilities are available within the school to use.
thatwilldopig
Nearest public library to me is over 5 miles away with no public transit and many places do NOT take paper applications or post listings.
ninjagaidensigma
Even if it were a luxury, which it isn't, you'd still be selling yourself short not having the world's services at your feet, on demand.
thedevil
If they don't want to sell themselves short then work harder, get off assistance and THEN get internet. The point here is that assistance
thedevil
if necessary SHOULD be temporary, and that luxuries, like internet, should be something to incentivize them to get off assistance.
compulsivemastication
What a fucking disgusting thing to say. Shame on you.
thedevil
being so naive as to think that everyone that is receiving aid needs it and uses it responsibly.
thedevil
Shame on me? Shame on the parasites that feed off of hard working people. Shame on the people cheating the system, and shame on you for
compulsivemastication
So we condemn everyone for the sake of a few parasites. Congratulations, you have bought into one of the most pernicious conservative myths.
thedevil
Not a myth, observable fact from my personal experiences. I'm not fan of conservatives, but i'm also no fan of working so others can slack
thedevil
off.
Boxingbud
Luxuries aren't a right. If you read the actual post (I assume you can read and just don't mash that keyboard randomly.) You can see (1/2)
Boxingbud
How poor people can have nice things once in a while and 100% truth, you can't do anything about it anyway. If this brings you suffering..
Boxingbud
Then it brings an even bigger smile to my face.
thedevil
Nice things perhaps, but cable tv is a bill, not a gift, same with internet. High end electronics? Sell them and pay bills. No reason
Boxingbud
Well if the government pays for it, once again, literally nothing you can do. If they don't think it's abuse, the recipient gets it.
thedevil
someone receiving government assistance should have a smart phone.
Boxingbud
I agree they should have a smart phone if they have one.
minusone
I worked a $250/week full-time job, qualified (and needed!) food stamps, and had a smart phone through work. Is that a good enough reason?