Monday, February 26, 2024

Debbie Lanier's Life and Times: Volume 31: The Party House

Debbie definitely had her partying days in the 70s. However once she settled down and became a mom, she was all in. 

She didn't drink anymore, wasn't a lot of hanging out. Mine and Adam's life and activities were hers, especially as we grew older and became more involved.  

Adam was more of the socialite/partner. As his birthday is this week, I can't help but think how he celebrated many occasions right in the comforts of my mom's house. 

Mom was actually a fun mom but had a relax, controlled environment. She may have not agreed with everything Adam and his friends did but she understood that some things that they were going to do as young folks. Debbie thought differently as always. She wanted them to party, drink, and smoke in a safe space and where they were looked after and not judged. 

I know that didn't make sense especially for kids under 18 and Mom got a lot of pushback for this. What others don't realize are the numerous young folks my mom got through to. Teenagers, male and female, confided in and trusted Debbie. She would tell them like it is and would get onto them and mentor them even. My mom wanted them to finish school, work, be productive adults. It was 50/50 overall as half of that crowd back then are also deceased, in jail or are on hardened drugs still. 

Debbie wanted to be that stabilizer as she didn't do hard drugs and would only allow alcohol, weed and pills, no meth or anything of that nature. Ther was no raping, harassing nor fighting either. You got along or you got out. My uncle Kenny was right across the road for the extra riff raff but she fed, clothed and even temporarily housed some of Adam's friends. She just wanted to show them love. 

I can't say personally I agree with that technique but it was a way for my mom to keep her baby boy close to her. She couldn't save him at the end but she saved many others. 

No comments:

Post a Comment