How might your development have been different if your family had been significantly richer or poorer than it was?

I grew up poor. I think my parents might have stayed  together longer if they had more money, but I don't think they would still be together today. I also don't know if I would be as appreciative of all I do have today if I grew up with more money. Working hard for something gives it more meaning.. 

Dear Anonymous,

We did not have much money when I was growing up in the 1950's in the logging country of SW Washington State...my father made $200 per month I still recall.

But once he got a promotion; however, that took up so much of his time that he went back to the old job. I still remember he said 'our children will never be this age again,' and he wanted to spend the time with my brother and me.

* * *

So yes, I missed the money but overall have no complaints...my childhood was unusually high quality, I now realize.

I probably would not have been able to go to the good school that I attended and maybe my life would've been quite different on account of that, maybe my parents wouldn't have been educated and gotten me interested in the intellectual pursuits that I'm...pursuing.

I was born during the Great Depression. My family lost everything and I grew up in a situation that, by today's standards, would have been considered poor.

Had I been born into a wealthier family I would probably have had a better education, a more satisfying job, and an easier life. But I would also have missed out on meeting Mrs Didge and that would have deprived me of a lifetime filled with laughter.

I wouldn't change a thing.

There are fore things that was never ever,

needed here and one is money.

You should not have to earn a living when

it is your right to be ALIVE !