Uprooted, we were forced to find a new way to survive in a new town. My siblings began lashing out, my father’s and mother’s depression increased, and life was never the same. I was quickly forced to grow up. I learned how to take care of my father, how to cook, clean, control finances, and generally take care of myself. I cannot remember buying something without worrying about how much it cost.
As the youngest of seven children my siblings were given the job of raising me. I have fond memories of my youngest sister teaching me how to read and act, and my youngest brother teaching me how to play basketball and swim. As I grew older I, ironically, began tutoring my siblings in history and math. We all supported each other and in the end, helped each other to grow up.
Sadly, as a grew I stopped seeing my siblings, as they were all much older than me. Eventually, at the age of twelve I was alone. I was forced to focus upon my parents and take care of them myself. We took care of each other, but it is an interesting situation, having your fifteen-year-old daughter making sure you go to bed, eat, and go to the hospital when you