In response to the article written by Chris and Karleen Perry that appeared in Saturday's Gazette, I have this to say:
You claim that those from lower-income families will automatically cause trouble for those with a higher standard of living just because they don't make as much in a year as they do? Not only is that one of the stupidest things I have ever heard of, it's also the most offensive.
I come from a lower-income family and have grown up with just my mother and younger brother and have come to live here in St. Albert after a family tragedy. Neither my brother nor I have done any sort of gang-related activities, gotten into any sort of trouble with the authorities, do any kind of drugs or cause any kind of trouble. It's just not worth it.
I'm not saying that all those from lower-income families are the same. However, it's extremely egotistical of you to say that it's only us that causes problems because, whether you like it or not, there are those who are well off who contribute to these as well. If you refuse to accept that, then obviously you need to get into the real world.
And who says students of low-income families can't do as well in school as the others? I have been a good student, well behaved with good marks, and my friends liked me for who I am, not for how much I have in my wallet to spend. They knew my situation, and none of them cared. I didn't have to prove my worth by flashing around money, unlike your son and his so-called "friends."
Also, I just listened to your "apology" on the evening news just now. It doesn't come off as sincere at all; it sounds more like you have a lot of people who are angry and upset with you (and I can understand why).
By the way, you say you live in Kingswood? Congratulations! I live just down the road from you. What a way to treat a neighbour, huh? Thanks a lot for letting me know that even though I've met a lot of wonderful people here in St. Albert, of all classes, there are still those here that look down their nose at you if you're not wealthy.
Stephanie Lau, St. Albert
