Reminiscing

When I look at my eldest daughter, Jasmine - I am reminded of the challenges we once faced and overcame. God truly had His hand over us.

I had a boyfriend who was abusive and his family were emotionally killing me too. His sister and mother had suggested I join the sister on her 'night shift job' because the job I had wasn't bringing in enough money. At that point I had thought his sister was a bartender with a rich boyfriend - how naive I was. When I refused, their attitude towards me changed. Jasmine and I lived with them - he would hit me in her presence.

One Sunday morning he was frustrated about finances and I was about to be his punching bag again. I had had enough and grabbed Jasmine - put her on my hip and ran down a narrow staircase while being chased by my ex. I had almost fallen down those stairs with Jasmine but thank God I got to the front door just before he could grab me. When I got out the gate - I just continued running without looking back.

We had left everything behind, we just had the clothes on our backs. We sat on the sidewalks and later we became hungry - I comforted Jasmine and said we will get some food soon not knowing where our meal would come from. I carried her to a shelter but they had turned us away because they didn't allow children. At that point - I felt lost. I felt defeated and like a failure.

My family has always been supportive but I was so ashamed that I had once again needed help.

After walking around for hours - I decided to walk to my mom's friend and she had given us something to eat and allowed me to make a call to my uncle Gerry. He picked us up and took us to their home. Him and my aunt Hazel treated me like their daughter and Jasmine was like their grandchild. My uncle passed away in January this year - he has had my back in so many ways throughout my life especially in my rebellious time. I will never forget his contribution towards raising me. More of that another time though.

No matter where you've been or what you've been through - know that there's always hope. Hold on, don't let go - push forward. Your tomorrow will be better. God has your back.