Childhood in Appalachia shaped who I am from "summary" of Hillbilly Elegy by J. D. Vance
Growing up in the hills of Appalachia, surrounded by poverty and dysfunction, had a profound impact on the person I have become. Those formative years spent in a place where hope was scarce and opportunities were few shaped my worldview in ways that are still evident today. The struggles and hardships that were a daily part of life in my childhood home left an indelible mark on my psyche, influencing the decisions I would make and the person I would ultimately become. Living in Appalachia meant being exposed to a culture of violence, addiction, and instability. These were not just abstract concepts, but harsh realities that I witnessed firsthand. The cycle of poverty and despair seemed never-ending, with few people able to break free from its grip. As a child, I internalized these patterns of behavior and learned to navigate a world that was often chaotic and unpredictable. The lack of positive role models in my community meant that I had to rely on myself to forge a path forward. I learned early on that success was not guaranteed, and that I would have to fight tooth...
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