I believe in Medium writers promoting and distributing the work of other Medium writers as much as possible, especially when the work is as exceptional and meaningful as your piece, Jessica.

The attitudes of Americans, the only ones I really know, toward those less fortunate who must ask for institutional help is extraordinarily crass, cruel, and judgmental. We must work tirelessly to change this, particularly as it relates to single mothers who are often raising the children of men who are completely unengaged — emotionally, physically, and financially. Such women should be treated as heroes in our society, not shamed as leeches.