So I’ve been here for nearly 3 years and I’ve worked very hard. I’m the office manager but I do contracts, A/R, hiring, recruiting, termination, and a whole host of HR duties since our HR left. (Small company)

I asked for a raise. He didn’t hesitate and gave me 5k more than I asked for since I asked (I struggle with asking/imposter syndrome/poverty mindset and he’s aware of it)

Guys. I grew up working poor. My dad made good money for a factory but there were 7 of us. I now make more than double of what my mom ever made and 50% higher than any man in my family has ever made.

I cannot stress how life changing this is. I’m Appalachian so this is just unheard of.

Edit: WOW I am blown away! Please enough awards ! LOL I am so glad this resonated with so many folks.

FYI: Appalachians are folks from the area around the Appalachian mountains including parts of Pennsylvania, Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee and the entire state of West Virginia ( and maybe bits of other places) Historically they are a socially and geographically isolated culture who have been systematically oppressed by rich folks for their natural resources ( Timber and Coal). We've been painted as in-bred, ignorant, barefoot etc. We've been called Hillbillies. We are a vibrant and diverse culture of survivors who have brought our own successes to art, music,and science among others. Kathreen Johnson from Hidden Figures is Appalachian ( actually Afro-Lachian, they do exist.). We are a proud, fiercely independent culture but there is a lot of poverty. For example, in 1966 neither of my parents had running water, indoor plumbing, or electricity in their houses. In the US, in 1966! Also we invented pepperoni rolls which may be the best food ever ( outside of Tudors Biscuit World)