Linda L Anderson answers “This is a hard read. I am 53 years old...”

Atheena asked this question about Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis:

This is a hard read. I am 53 years old and just finished this book yesterday. I have cried all day yesterday, all night woke with nightmares and am crying now. I know this is for questions. The only question I have is... does it ever get ok?

Linda L Anderson Atheena, No one can answer that question, but it is clear to me that many people are trying to make changes to come closer to "OK". Misuse of governme…moreAtheena, No one can answer that question, but it is clear to me that many people are trying to make changes to come closer to "OK". Misuse of government programs aimed at those that truly need the helps is an ongoing problem and probably will never be eliminated. Clearly, no-one in our country should go without medical coverage, food or a solid roof over their heads. Unfortunately so many have grown up in social environments where generations, able to work and make a living, have taken advantage of those very benefits, simply because thats the "norm" and it is "all they know", so it is ok. I don't recall the use of the word "entitlement" in the book, but the misunderstanding of the concept clearly describes the mindset of many. Praise to the Mr. Vance on his honesty and candid description of the very difficult environment he was able to break away from.(less)

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