Oral History

My half sister from my father that is 9 years apart from me, who also grew up very different from me

Do you think your life would have been different if both of your parents were around while you were growing up.

Well yeah, i probably would have been got my degree by now. When i came to America (after my mom died) nobody was really watching over me. Daniel (dad) and your mom was always working so i really had freedom to do whatever. After you and your mom left Daniel and moved to Minnesota there was really nobody watching me. At least your mom had some restrictions on me but when i moved in with auntie that already had three kids i pretty much did what i want. Thats why i probably got pregnant so young. (age 15)

Well do you blame anyone for you not graduating college yet?

Hell yeah, if auntie watched Stephan (son) for me while i was in college i would have been done. But when he came to Dekalb to live with me in the campus apartments my grades started going down because it was hard watching him, going to class and work and nobody was there to help me. There was this girl that also had a kid and she use to babysit when i was busy and i would babysit when she was busy but later on she started acting phony so i stopped associating with her.

So you really do blame aunt Meme for you not graduating?

Naw its not like that i just never had enough help, even though i know she was going though her problems but its like what do you have family for if they can't help you when you need it the most. You cant rely on these people. Obviously im good with her now, i talk to her more then you do. lol

lol yeah i know, so kinda switching topics, how did you feel when Daniel (dad) past away?

Well of course i was upset, thats my dad even though he wasnt the greatest dad in the world he was our dad.

But you guys had some real tough times, i was young so everything is blurry but you were in your teens..

I dont know, im not like Myrna (our other half sister) that is going to hold a grudge for Daniel not being there like a father is suppose to. Not every man knows how to be a father, i think he did the best he can, so its whatever

True, so as of right now with your life are you happy?

Yup, im healthy, have my own place, new car, i can buy a house if i wanted to now because my credit is so good. Im dating having fun so yup, im happy