ABSTRACT
The first narrative reflection is my storied account as a child from a lower socioeconomic status growing up in the housing projects. The stories center on my relationship with my older brother and how we navigate the neighborhoods we live in. I reflect on my mother's decisions to protect the family and the ultimate cost of those impossible terms that poverty negated. My brother and I were separated for my mother to ensure our safety. Thus, my narrative analyzes how government housing programs shaped my lived experiences. More importantly, this reflection explores how economic status impacts familial concerns and informs the decisions made about my educational options as a low-income Black child. I end the reflection by connecting my experiences to the stories Robert shared as a parent now.
