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Feature Story | Tell us your story! |
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 BackWe've come a long way In 1997, I abruptly left an extremely violent and abusive 10-year relationship. My children were 14, 11, 8, and 6. Because I had such a large family, there was no room for us at any of the shelters. Therefore, for 6 months, my children and I slept at a different home every night. To insure our safety, I had to quit my job where I worked for 14 years. We were living on my social security income that I was receiving from my late husband, who was the father of my first two children. Finally, with the grace of God, I was able to get us an apartment. It was then, when I decided to start my life all over again. I enrolled into five classes at a community college. I was blessed to find another job as a part time employee. Two months later, my sister was in a horrible seven-car pile up on the expressway. She was charged with reckless homicide and had to serve time in jail. I felt obligated to take in my two nieces age, six weeks, and three years old. I was already having a difficult time feeding my four kids and now I had six kids to feed, clothe, and nurture, with one of them being a newborn. As you know, having a newborn is expensive when adding formula and diapers to your budget. I was not able to get any assistance from welfare. Since my sister would not sign the papers to give me temporary custody (and I was $7.00 over their financial limit), I did not qualify for any public aid benefits. A year later, my job position was eliminated and I was jobless with six kids. I found another job several months later. However, I continued going to school with the aid of grants and scholarships. After a few months, I fainted at work. It was determined that I had a brain hemorrhage and I had to have brain surgery. After the surgery, I had to relearn everything that some of us take for granted. I had to learn how to walk, talk, and read again. Although, I was told that it would take approximately a year and a half to two years to recuperate, I went back to work two months later, and enrolled back into school a year later. During the time I was ill, my social security ended and my disability income was less than $75.00 a week. To make matters worse, I was told that my job was closing down and I had less than a month to find another job. There are so many negative influences out there for my children. I did not want my children to use a drug dealer as their mentor. I knew I had to continue to get my education and needed a better paying job. I had to be THEIR POSITIVE INFLUENCE and MENTOR! That was three years ago. Since then, I found another full time job, purchased my own home, and graduated with honors (Phi Theta Kappa member) this past May. Without the skills I learned in college, I would not have my job today. Nor, would I have owned my home. I have enrolled at a private university to pursue a Bachelor in Arts. Through all the trials and tribulations, I made it work. I am still a single mom and still financially struggling. Although, I get disconnection notices every month, I was blessed that nothing has ever been cut off. Our pantry became bare, but we never went to sleep hungry. My car is 16 years old, but I have transportation. At times, I am late with my mortgage, but it has never reached foreclosure. Do not let financial hardship and life's problems discourage you from pursuing your education. Money, jobs, and so many other worldly possessions can be taken away from you. Nevertheless, nobody can ever take away your skills and education. Without the bad times, you would not enjoy the good times. Without hardships, you would not understand when things are trouble-free. With the support of God, your family and friends, you can do it. I did, and I know you can too! ©2003 Paulita Chlopecki. |
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Paulita Chlopecki Associate's Degree; Bachelor's Candidate |
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