I Was Almost Homeless

I wasn't really homeless the way some women are, but I felt homeless because I wasn't in my own place anymore. I didn't have the freedom of watching what I wanted on TV, preparing the meals I wanted, or doing other things. I was obligated to my parents, and to do things their way,after all.

This is why I'm so passionate about homelessness, because it almost happened to us. If we didn't use the unemployment for the rent we would have been out all together. By living at my parents for a few months we saved on groceries, electricity, and heat. My husband lived minimally on peanut butter and cold cuts. He kept the heat low, and the lights turned off except the one he needed to read. With our expenses cut to the bone we were able to keep our apartment, just barely.

It was a difficult time in our marriage because I was angry with my husband. I felt he should be able to find a job and support us. Looking back, I know he did the best he could, even taking on jobs like food prep to make some money. He finally did find a steady job and now almost thirty years later he's looking towards retirement. Our marriage survived thanks to some sage advise from Mom, and a generous family who helped us when we were down. I wish everyone had help as we did.

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