I have been there, single mother raising three kids and all, but luckily I relied on my credit cards to feed us, which later I had to file bankruptcy. Being poor is not something we choose, it is just the situation and destine we were given.
I believe because of this experience, I am more humble and compassionate toward others.
You've bared your soul, and your story was written from the heart! Thank you!
There are people, who self-made their money, like those sharks on USA TV "Shark Tank" that would 100% disagree.
But what those sharks do not understand, is that they got opportunities when opportunities were available. Sometimes we all get an opportunity, but when it shows up, could be early or later. There still will be dry spots in life.. hard times.. just like the one you talked about.
I admire you for feeding your kids with your credit cards, and not leaving them hungry to go to the casino.
I read some of your replies, and I completely agree with what you said here: " It's like the hidden secret of society that only pops up when everyone is talking about it, but it's always there."
It seems that each one of us carries many secrets that we don't often talk about. I used to have a blog called Raw Thoughts and Feelings, where I wrote out my "secrets" as raw as it is or was..My readers were all in shock and very uncomfortable. My life journey was not "dandy" enough for common comprehension :-(