From a child’s point of view, especially back in the 50s when racism was at its peak, there was no invisible division between the white and the black. Mary, as a child, never saw any difference between the two and treated them equally. She loved her helpers, which were people of color, and was even able to create an impact in Mary’s life as a child.

 

“All these people helped to make our lives easier, and they also helped to shape my life in wonderful ways. I'll always be grateful to them.”

 

- Mary Sue Rabe

Racism was not a part of Mary’s vocabulary ever since she was a kid and still does not understand the point of bullying people of color. Growing up white, she was blessed with a kind family, a big home, and helpers. Though her helpers were people of color, she still loved them and treated them equally and with kindness.

 

In this episode, Mary shares how James, one of her helpers, has made an impact on her life as a kid. She also shares bits and pieces about Virgie, a very excellent cook for her family that makes her mouth water, and Mazel, a 17-year old who made her giggle all the time!

What you will learn from this episode:

 

• Learn how one of Mary’s helper, James, made an impact in Mary’s life as a child

 

• Discover how Mary, as a child, view people of color versus how her family views them

 

• Find out about the significance of James, Virgie, and Mazel in Mary’s life and family 

Link to a Free Resource:

 

• Stand There and Look Pretty Darlin’ by Mary Sue Rabe

 

 

Topics Covered:

 

01:03 - Mary shares who James is and what significance has he brought in her life as a child

 

02:44 - Christmas and Mary’s $10 bill

 

04:19 - James and the brick wall that he built

 

06:41 - Who is Virgie and how did she make an impact in Mary’s family and household

 

08:56 - Mary shares who Mazel is 

 

10:24 - Mary summarizes how James, Virgie, and Mazel played a significant role in her life

 

11:00 - Mary’s discovery of the hidden booze years later

Key Takeaways:

 

“I realized that I was not really angry either. If James needed Bob, I was glad to share it with him. But I was grateful that he made change, and I still had some money. $5 in the mid-50s would pay for lots of 25-cent movies.” - Mary Sue Rabe

 

“He did not react to me. He just went to work. If it had been one of my relatives, I would have been in big trouble, but James did not say a word. He just did his job. I cannot imagine being in his place when this thoughtless little white girl had just ruined his entire day's work. He was a good sport, but did he have a choice?” - Mary Sue Rabe

Connect with Mary Sue Rabe:

 

• https://marysuerabe.com
• https://womenhealingtheworld.com
• Book: Stand There and Look Pretty Darlin'