Toni, as they called her, grew up in the heart of Mississippi—the home of the Delta Blues. Although the trappings of her life were comfortable, some of the realities were far from idyllic. The combination of an often challenging family life, the very real threat of polio that was spreading fear throughout the country, and being a naturally sensitive young girl made for the perfect incubator for unworthiness. It also laid the groundwork for some of her very first realizations as a young girl looking to belong in a world that often felt confusing and chaotic.