Being Quote by Dawn Foster
“The mental baggage involved in attempting to feed yourself when poor is immense. Being able to go into a supermarket and buy what you both need and want is incredibly freeing, but it's a luxury not appreciated by anyone who hasn't experienced longterm hardship.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Poverty Paradox, The Atlantic, 2022
Having enough resources to choose freely feels liberating, yet those who have never faced scarcity often cannot grasp its significance.
In simple terms: Freedom of choice feels freeing, but only those who’ve known need understand it.
Recognize privilege and empathize with those lacking choice.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- shopping
- budgeting
- policy making
- community support
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does your privilege shape your decisions?
- What can you do to support those with limited choices?
Freedom can blind us to others’ struggles.