Homeless Grandmother
© Interview with a formerly homeless grandmother
This is an interview with a friend who found even her adult children turned against her when she needed their help the most. As with my other interviews, the name of the homeless person is not revealed unless they specifically give me permission.
Why did you leave your home?
Fleeing for your life is a numbing experience. Add to that three adult children who've turned against you for running, and that's another horror story in itself. My leaving was an action of necessity. It was my life and my decision.
How old were you when you left? 50
Why did you leave your home?
The first sixteen years of our marriage, my husband drank every weekend. Besides weekends, once or twice a week, he was running around with his friends, drinking until he was ready to pass out. Then he would come home when he was too drunk to move, but never too to drunk not to turn on me. I knew what awaited me every time he came through the door, and had no power to avert it.
After you escaped did you learn anything from your experience?
I can't say I didn't learn how to survive, for I did. I'm still here, but much wiser and a little more attuned to the happenings around me. I think sometimes that what led to my running for my life was the fact that I became too complacent in my life, too dependent upon God. I knew His word, His way, and was learning daily to create a new day with Him.
Did you feel betrayed by God?
Little did I know that I was on my way to learning a new level of faith, endurance, and self-control. Above all, I learned that regardless of the fact that I am a woman, grandmother, and on my own, God loves me too. Yes, he loved the husband in this story, but He loves me just as much.
What was it like at a domestic violence shelter?
Domestic violence shelters are cold, noisy, and necessary. If not for their protection, well, I feel safe in saying I wouldn't be here writing my story today.
How long did you stay homeless and in a shelter?
I met many people in the three months I was away from home. When it became necessary, I was moved to different shelters for my own safety. Yet not once did I meet another grandmother. The people I met were mothers trying to protect themselves and their children. They were eligible for public assistance and there was enough available to them that they could make it in the world without their abusers.
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