A Journey to WSB
In fifth grade, I was introduced to the stock market in Mrs. Bolton’s class. We played the Stock Market Game every year and it had a lasting impact on my understanding of economics.
In 2001, I watched the economies of the world tumble because of a terrorist attack.
In 2003, my credit was ruined by a poor choice in husbands
In 2007, my credit was terrible but I had a good-paying job and started receiving advertisements telling me I could afford to buy my own home. As a single lady, I didn’t need a house but I was tired of paying rent. I started attending open houses and imagining the freedom of homeownership. There was a 2 bedroom house with an adorable picket fence and walk-in closets. The neighborhood was brand new and promised to be full of block parties. I was such an easy target. The realtor was super accommodating and excited to help me purchase the house. I knew nothing. My family is poor and I only knew 3 people who bought a house — one set of grandparents and two “rich” aunts. The more complicated it sounded, the less sure I became. The more doubts I had about taking on such a responsibility, the more pressure he applied. The more pressure he applied, the more I pulled away. I began to doubt the wisdom of buying a home with no savings and without a stable income. Eventually, I ghosted the realtor.
Later that year, my car died. I used some savings as a deposit on a 1997 Pontiac Grand Am that was a lemon. Without reliable transportation, I lost my job. Without reliable income, I lost the car. Without a car, transportation became impossible and I lost my apartment.
I was homeless 4 times between 2007 and 2008.
With the help of family, friends, and a bit of luck… I am safe and nearly comfortable. My husband and I have worked very, very hard to get to the point of paying our bills on time and restoring our credit. For 20 years I have been trying to follow the rules of capitalism. For 20 years, I have worried about the ability to have a roof over my head and food on my table.
I’m done playing their games.
