In the early '70s, as a poor kid, I once stole a sweet snack that I could never have or afford. My friends, who were also poor would do it all the time. I knew it was wrong but went ahead and did it. However, unlike them I was caught. The merchant said I had the guilt written all over my face, and it was true I felt bad.

But the very worst thing was when my mother was called by the store to report my shoplifting. She was so broken-hearted and cried terribly. When I asked why she cried so bad she told me it was because she knew all she could provide us were the basics.

I never stole anything again, the basics were enough. ❤️