I know the American Dream is real because I’ve witnessed my family’s own journey.
My late granddaddy was born in 1921 in a small town in South Carolina. He dropped out of school in third grade to pick cotton.
He couldn't read, but he sat at the kitchen table every morning with a newspaper to set a good example for me and my brother. He helped raise us, and taught us the importance of a good education.
My mama faced challenging circumstances raising us as a single parent, but she taught me the importance of finding dignity in all work and the power that faith in God can have on your life.
Throughout my life, I've experienced moments and mentors that taught me how to turn obstacles into opportunities.
My granddaddy lived long enough to go from picking cotton to seeing his grandson pick out his seat in Congress. To go from Cotton to Congress in one lifetime is a journey that can only happen in America.
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