Young Tribulations

I remember my first apartment so clearly. I don't remember the actual move, but I remember when I first got the apartment. I was so happy to be on my own. I had just turned seventeen. It was pretty young to do such a thing, but that's a long story so I'll stay focused on what I'm writing about. I was still in high school. I remember the principle called me into his office because I had written a note about being late, it read something like this, "please excuse Sandy for being late, she got up late this morning and didn't have to time to get to school on time." I signed my name to the note. I knew it wouldn't be accepted, but I had to write something to get into school, otherwise I'd get detention. I was working on a farm, so detention meant I wouldn't be able to work. If I couldn't work, I couldn't pay my rent.

I walked into the principals office and sat down. He politely closed the door. This meant one of two things, I was in big trouble or I was going to have to do some serious explaining. He asked, I told my story. There he sat at his desk with his hands on his face looking at me with a wonder that I'd not seen before. I knew he had some decision to make, to what extent I didn't understand. He explained how it was supposed to be a note from my mother, but given the circumstance he would accept a note from me. He also told me that I should be careful who I tell that I'm living on my own, and then he said that I should check in with him periodically. I walked out of the office smiling realizing that everything was going to be okay. What I didn't realize is how concerned he was for me.

I finished out my junior year with good grades, I really didn't miss that much school, and I didn't have to write many more notes for being late. I learned that if I wanted to make sure I stayed living on my own, I probably shouldn't make too many waves, and I probably should try to be invisible as much as possible.

I didn't know exactly what it all meant when I was young and on my own. Sometimes when your trying so hard to live, understanding the world around you doesn't seem so important. I wish I had more wisdom back then, I may have understood the people around me. I failed hopelessly at times, but I think I succeeded much more than failed; I'm just happy it all turned out okay.

Until next time: We walk blindly at times thinking we know exactly what we're doing. Sometimes that blindness is what makes us get through difficult times; sometimes it keeps us from growing. May your sight be sharp, your wisdom clear, and the people around you care enough to protect you when your sight is stopping you from protecting yourself.