It’s been a rough week. Being a 13 year old who has classes most of the day, followed by sports practice, a variety of other after-school activities and tons of homework to do is tough any normal week. But now add hunger pains. I wouldn’t go so far as to call it excruciating, but it was really hard trying to concentrate in a spelling bee or on a math test when I had to drown out the sounds of my stomach growling. And I found myself with little energy to make it through basketball practice. It also didn’t help at all that I had three grouchy, hungry and not to mention tired family members, also participating in the Food Stamp Challenge and with whom I share a house.
And I’ll admit. I cheated. At school. It seemed like everywhere I turned, there were snacks, or birthday treats, or a celebration. I tried to follow the challenge the best I could in the face of temptation. Even though I know that the food stamp “challenge” is now over for me, I think of all of the people for whom it continues. What must they have to do for weeks, months or years while they aren’t financially stable? I couldn’t even go a whole week without sneaking a couple of chips for a snack here and there and they don’t even have that option.
This week gave me an opportunity not only to see the difference in what I eat, but also to compare and raise awareness in my school community. I have my description of the food stamp challenge and what we’ve been doing down to a short four sentences. My friends and teachers at school have genuinely been interested, and asked me to explain in better detail what exactly the food stamp challenge is. I’m glad I had this experience and was able to share it with my friends and family.Levi Cooper
No comments:
Post a Comment