I had tried all I could to maintain my apartment. I felt despite the layoffs, that I could make it on my weekly unemployment check. Problem was, rent was behind and  regardless of how I attempted to catch up, I had to move. The tears flowed down my face as I packed the belongings that I would carry with me. I would sell all else to at least have some extra money. Neighbors were sorry to see me go and eagerly helped me get rid of my extra items by making purchases.

As I cleaned up the apartment, wondering what would happen next, I gave thanks for the shelter I had maintained which protected me from the elements, the neighbors I befriended and the landlord. They did the best they could working with me, but they had a job to do. Questions swarmed through my head about where would I go. All I could do at that point was trust the Higher Power to lead me.

Once I left the apartment for the last time, I was led to stay at a temporary shelter. I was determined to heal through my experience and create a better life for myself. I only stayed overnite because a person whom I befriended in a spiritual class texted me late that night as I attempted to sleep. He would not stop texting me until I answered. I texted him back that I was fine. He texted back that he would meet me at the local train station the next day.

As he was driving down the Interstate, he explained that he needed an assistant in his business and life. I would handle things in his home, pet sit and take his appointments for his business. He didn’t know how long I would be there, but he was grateful to have me. I agreed to do this for him in exchange for room and board. Financial arrangements were also made and that was that.

It has been nearly a year since I have been here and I have grown so much in this experience. There have been discussions of me leaving much to his dismay but, he knows that I must honor my journey.

Those dark days I thought I would not get through, I realized I was stronger than I thought. I truly believe that any pain we go through is a matter of perspective. It is up to us to decide if we are bigger than that. Through this experience, if there would be any challenges I would encounter in the future, I have tools to succeed.