With a Helping Hand We Can Climb Higher
By Anonymous
I am an abused woman. I was brought to the shelter by my cousin. I had severe pain in my neck and back, due to a blow in my mid-back region. I also had pneumonia and was chronically exhausted.
The shelter has helped me. I have a place to live. I am safe from harm. I have a phone and use of a computer to help assist me with employment and housing when the time comes.
I got a chance to work on the shelter’s stipend program. I worked in the garden and hoop houses for money. It meant I had a chance to improve my physical fitness. I also had some money. I got to relax and enjoy nature.
It gave me a sense of accomplishment.
Another good thing about the shelter is the learning experiences. I take a journaling class. It brought back my love of creative writing. I’ve learned how to make homemade soup and lip balm. I discovered I have some skill at flower arranging.
Here at the shelter, compliments and “thank yous” are heard frequently. I enjoyed taking time with my appearance again. I have realized that abuse tends to kill creativity. It also leads to apathy as far as my appearance.
Thanks to the shelter, I have rediscovered my love of arts and crafts, reading, and writing. I am seeking work and look forward to accepting the best offer.
This post is part of our Survivor Stories series.