Bae's Rhapsody

This book evolved from writings I did for my children as I approached my sixtieth birthday. I write of some of the people, places and experiences that shaped my life. I am a retired Registered Nurse who worked twenty-five years in the Sexually Transmitted Disease Clinic, Memphis Shelby County Health Department. Many questioned how I became compassionate and understanding of the less fortunate and what some call "low life". I am an advocate for the disenfranchised and dysfunctional.

My book depicts events in my life, which is the story of many African American women during the forties and fifties, living in the South when legal segregation was beginning to crumble, yet racial discrimination and limited opportunities were daily realities. Living in the city with rural roots, nothing sensational, no acclaims to fame, but definitely a part of history.

Many people have touched me with sayings that became a part of the fabric of my life. Such a person was Uncle Cortrell, my paternal grandfather's youngest brother. He lived under the porch of Aunt Inez's house on Hemlock Street. He was a quiet, meek man, always with a smile. When asked "How are you?" he answered "No need to grumble when I have a pocket full of crumbs". He, who had seizures, was unable to work and lived in a dark, damp room, found no need to complain. He had a place to live and food to eat. I have tried to live with a positive attitude because of his saying.

"I thank God for every remembrance of you" is one of my favorite scriptures. Prayer is a vital part of my life. I praise and glorify God with prayers of thanksgiving. He has been so good to me. I feel his Divine Intervention has been present in my life, guiding me to heights and places I could not imagine.

I am blessed , regardless of the circumstances, for God is ever with me. These reflections reveal my pocket full of crumbs.