Many complain about being so poor and not able to afford many things, and help they need.

Living on a shoestring has been my fate in life.

By going without many “things” most folks have has helped me be able to pay my bills and buy food.

If I cannot afford an item, I do not buy it.

Or, if I need it badly, I put a certain amount of money monthly in a vacation or Christmas club account to buy the recliner or couch I need. When the payout is due me, I get the needed item. I do not have a credit card.

Or I make arrangements with my dentist or eye doctor to pay a certain amount a month and stick to it. Thus, my bills are paid.

I do not have health, nor dental insurances.

I volunteer daily, various hours, at St. Mary’s Residences chapel, and pay my hospital bill that way, since I’m not paid wages or benefits.

Not many would want my spartan existence, but it works for me.

Gabrielle DeMoras, Lewiston