His dad threw rocks, spiteful words, and a pitchfork at him. His mother told him he should have been stillborn. John A. Garrison vowed he would never be poor again. Being poor left you at the mercy of mean people. He graduated from eighth grade then went off to make his way in the world. The dirt poor child never made the same mistake twice. Resilience, a strong work ethic, and help from a few good people, gave John boosts at critical times. He grew up to become a millionaire. Now, with hopes it will inspire others to overcome a difficult childhood, he shares his story.