Growing and Learning

Growing up I have always been surrounded by family. Because I was the oldest son
and grandson I took on the responsibility of being in charge. At times and in different
situations, I’m sure this came across as being bossy and one sided, but actually I felt as if I
was quite fair, my Uncle didn’t, and we would often disagree.

My mother raised us to help participate in making decisions that involved us and things
that we did. Because of this, I feel it has given me common sense, knowing that I would
pay the consequence for actions that I do and self esteem. My cousins were raised quite
differently. My Uncle and Aunt separated when my youngest cousin was just a small child,
so he would get his two sons on weekends and most of the summer. He felt that...