"In all honesty, at that time, I never saw myself as an author... I was just a Mom in a state of panic, trying to enter a short story contest to win the prize money in order to keep the lights on in my home"

This quote by Leslie Banks talks to the struggles of many individuals who are attempting to make ends meet. It reflects the truth of many individuals who are in a state of desperation and want to take threats in order to provide for their families. Banks was a mom who remained in a state of panic and was willing to get in a short story contest in order to win the prize money to keep the lights on in her home. This quote talks to the guts and determination of people who are willing to take risks in order to provide for their families. It likewise speaks with the power of creativity and the ability of individuals to utilize their skills to make a difference in their lives. Banks was able to use her creativity to make a difference in her life and provide for her family.