We watched a 60 Minutes clip in class entitled Waiting in the Food Line. The story addressed a food line in Marietta, Ohio, near the Thanksgiving holiday. When the clip was over, Dr. Holben asked the class to share their views. No one spoke. My take...
The story, which portrayed several families and couples, showed us that people waiting for food aren't necessarily the typical welfare-supported individuals- most often, one wouldn't be able to pick them out of a crowd. Many times, its people in between jobs, or those who have a few extra expenses that month and the food supply in the pantry wore out before the paycheck came. One family was supported by the father, working full time at $7.50/ hour, trying to support a wife and four children. To make the payments each month and feed the family, the oldest son and his parents volunteered their services at their church, cleaning and repairing, for $65 per week- something they came to depend on. That family touched me more than the rest of the stories. It made me feel guilty and disappointed in myself that I spend so much money on groceries each week, for just myself! I couldn't believe that while they are struggling to buy food, I just swipe my debit card without another thought. Although this year I've learned to conserve money more, I still spend more than I should on things that aren't necessary. And while my parents no longer pay for my education, they did support me through 4 years at a private liberal arts college (although I had a 1/2 tuition scholarship, it still wasn't cheap).
The video made me realize yet again how lucky I am, and how I take so much for granted. I have every opportunity possible, and I don't always realize that. Perhaps now I will finally realize this, and make the most of it.
Here is the link to the clip:
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2003/01/08/60II/main535732.shtml?source=search_story
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