In 2010 when I was living in Houston, Texas, I was unable to find a music position. As a result I volunteered with the Americorps at the Houston Food Bank and made less than $800 a month. In order to be able to eat food, I applied and received $200 a month in food stamps. I enjoyed my time as a volunteer and my experience eventually impressed a school district which eventually hired me.

Today I am a music teacher and can finally afford to support myself. If it wasn’t for governmental handouts such as food stamps that Mitt Romney and the Republicans criticize, I may not be where I am today.

I am the 47% that he looks down on. The 47% that he judges and does not care about. I was once dependent on government, but today I am a better person.

Obama 2012