Page 17 - That’s Crazy ebook

CHAPTER 1

The Magnetism of Washington, DC

(Giselle)

C
ourtney, my college friend, who was already living in

Washington, DC, opened her home and heart to me. I will never
forget the day she came to Kinston, North Carolina, my

hometown, and picked me up in a blue Chevette. I took all my earthly
belongings and headed to the big city of Washington, DC with so

much naiveté and with the eyes of a child. I now realize how much of
a sheltered life I had lived.

I grew up as the daughter of a police officer who always sheltered
me from the harsh realities of the world. “Big Poppa” was his name

and I was the only child between my mother and him. Big Poppa and

I were one; he was my anchor, my best friend, and my protector. He
was the first one to say “You have to leave Kinston. There is nothing
here for you.” He wanted me to explore the world while, at the same

time, always encouraging me that I could conquer the world. I am not

sure if I could have the unconditional love required to send my 22-
year-old daughter to a big city. He knew that if I failed, he would

3