The Day That Changed My Life

August 4, 1990

August 4, 1990, is the day that changed my life forever and my adoptive’s family life forever. (What I am about to share is still pretty hard for me to talk about). I will never forget this date. And sometimes I wonder what would have happened if I made different decisions. Here it goes:

I was a high school junior (under the age of 18) at home with my adoptive mother (who had custody of us kids) and my 3 younger siblings. My mother had gone to work that morning, leaving me home with the 3 others (supposed to be looking after them). But for some reason that morning, I was feeling really anxious, not happy, and even slightly suicidal because my mom was still physically and emotionally abusing me at this age. I just couldn’t take it anymore. So I decided to gather my siblings and let them know if I didn’t get out of there, I don’t know what I would do. So I packed a paper sack with some clothes in it and called my high school psychology teacher to come get me. I left a note on the kitchen table for my mom saying I needed a break and would be at my adoptive dad’s house. My teacher came and picked me up, took me to my dad’s. I don’t remember the car ride but I do remember seeing my dad for the first time in about 3 years because I was not allowed to see him. (My mother wouldn’t let me see him - more on that story later). I do remember my dad calling my Grandpa (my mom’s dad) to let him know that I was safe and sound. My grandpa worked at the Sheriff’s office in another county.

This next part (heard from my grandpa). Of course, when my mom returned home from work that day, she was livid and reported me to be a missing child, even though she knew darn well where I was.

This day’s event spiraled into lots of things from hospitalization, to court hearings, to losing my relationships with my mom and siblings. But this day shaped me into who I am today. Sometimes, I wonder, did I do the right thing? Other times, I say yes! I know I am not innocent in everything in the breaking of relationships.

This is my narrative, please do not pity me, or make comments of how sorry. It was my decision. I am just sharing a part of my story in my blog. Thank you!