I have been awakened from a too-long slumber by an unexpected source. A friend of mine who I’ve known a few weeks and only really been friends with for a week needed some assistance with something. He wasn’t going to ask, but I knew he needed a place to stay for a couple of nights. This creeping sensation settled over me as I realized that I was actually for once in my life in a position to finally help a friend! So I made the offer, he accepted, and as a result:
- I suppose we’ve become better friends
- I’m more open and talkative and have been making more friends
- Most importantly, this issue GOT MY MIND OFF MY HUSBAND and the impending divorce. About all I’ve thought of for 2 1/2 years was how to do this or that for my husband.
So I’m really really happy and feel I must in some way point out to my friend that by helping him, I was helped too and just feel so much healthier!
Man, before I clicked this thread I would have bet money there was going to be an “I just saved a bunch of money on my car insurance” line. Guess I was wrong.
Anyway, its good to see there are helpful people out in the world. Karma will reward you surely.
I’m just happy to hear how much better things are going for you now, acrossthesea.
Good for you! You’re beginning to find yourself bit by bit. It can be a very liberating feeling…enjoy. 
Hugs,
karol
I just have to say that on the one hand, of course it’s lovely that there are people out there that help others. That’s great, makes us all feel all warm and fuzzy inside.
On the other hand, I’d have to say maybe it’s not the best idea to invite someone you barely know to live in your home. Now, I’ll probably get yelled at. I’ve been a single mother for 5 years, and I guess having sole responsibility for myself and 3 other people has hardened me. I’ve pretty much come to the conclusion that yes, there ARE predators out there, and it’s my job to make sure they don’t look at ME or MINE and see “Victim!” painted on our foreheads.
I do feel for people in hard times, Og knows I’ve had my share. And I don’t disagree with your decision- you know whats best for you. But I am curious to know, do you have children living with you?
I don’t have kids. I have 2 steps, but they’re obviosuly not living with me. Now I’ve only been what I can call “friends” with the guy for a week but I have known him about a month already, and he’s a coworker. The people at work are all pretty close with one another…there is a basic unspoken trust between us all. This is a guy who’s given me rides home (as have most of my coworkers, since I dont have a car) and believe me he’s safe. He’s also considerably younger than me! And he’s not living with me, just stayed 2 nights.
Don’t worry about it, in other words. I was in a situation a month ago where I had to leave where I was and was potentially facing going to a shelter for battered women. A friend who I didn’t know too well stepped in and let me stay with her a few nights and helped me get an apartment. When I discovered that this coworker was in a similar position, I knew I had to help. And all was well.
good on you.
sometimes when you help others you help yourself.