School Books

Paying for school is a concern for most students and I am no different. The first year of classes I was able to pay for tuition with a Pell Grant but paying for books was a different matter. The Lord, however, was creative.

One book that I needed was the APA style Publication Manual. It "just so happened" that the library where I work weeded out a slightly out of date copy. The cataloger knows I'm a writer, so she gave it to me just in case I needed it for reference some time. I thought it was odd since most of the publications I had dealt with required MLA, but I accepted it for the "just in case" factor.

Another book was only $10 instead of $120 because I bought a slightly out of date, used copy. The first 80 pages of the newest edition were available on Google Books, so I was able to check for differences in content. No substantial changes had been made, so I was able to use the older version without any problem.

The rest of my books for the year were covered by finding used copies online, renting from Chegg, and a surprise gift of money from a family member. The family member had no idea how badly I needed money for school, they just wanted to give me something to show me they loved me. Because of my innate frugality, I was able to buy school books, put gas in the car, buy a few groceries, and get a bill paid that was due.

"Give us this day our daily bread" hasn't exactly been my prayer, but it has often been my life. Along with continuing my secular education, I am continuing to learn the lesson that the Lord provides - in His own time.