Squatters

Our newest squatter is 18; I’ve known her for seven years, so when she asked to stay here of course I said yes. I never even thought twice about it. She’s adorable; she smells like freshly cut flowers, her hair is always nicely brushed and she has the clearest blue eyes I have ever seen.

Her name is Tasha and she calls me Aunt Mariah. Yesterday Tasha was having a moment; I knew it was hormonal so I gave her some warm milk and some chocolate, she cried (definitely hormonal). Tasha’s mom lives in some creepy cult with her two younger siblings and her dad is an unbearable alcoholic (and not a very nice one).

Her life is hard and she’s trying, she’s really trying and we’re here for her. Sadly it’s not enough though and I’m afraid she’s going to fall into the statistical melting pot. I know it’s not my job to parent her, but I can’t help it and I find myself staying up late wondering if she’s going to come home and hoping she’s safe.

When I find her bed made like this it makes me want to fold her up into a cute little box and let her start over. It also makes me want to throw pointed words at her parents because even though she’s eighteen, she’s still a little girl inside…

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14 Responses to Squatters

  1. And without parents to nurture her, she's going to stay a little girl inside. How sad that some parents just can't be there for their kids. I don't understand – I mean, as soon as I saw my kids (even with the struggles of bonding I've had with Isaac), I knew that I wanted and needed to be a better person for them, to be strong for them, to be there for them.

  2. You keep amazing me at how much you give to others!She will always remember you.

  3. You are the sweetest. She is so lucky to have you. =) See you're like a foster parent already!

  4. So sad. Some parents just really suck. I am glad you are there for her. My parents were very much "your 18, your on your own now" and I was. It was very hard. So I am so glad you are there for her.

  5. Just surfing by – God bless you for opening home and your hearts.

  6. SHe already has a better chance, knowing you are on her side! xoxo

  7. Mariah, your heart must be the size of frickin' Texas. It amazes me the way you're always there to help people. I hope Tasha makes it in life… I hope that your bit in giving her a comfy place to land will make a difference for her.Justine :o )

  8. Aw, Auntie Mariah you are a sweetie. You do good things. ♥

  9. Mariah, what an amazing person to take someone in and you can only hope that your selflessness can be a positive influence in her life. Her parent have failed but you leading by example can truly make a difference in her life.

  10. There's a special place for moms like you!

  11. She is so lucky to have you. I wish there was something I could do to help! I suppose if she's interested in visiting a college in the area, let me know. That's about all I can offer.Truly, though, I admire you immensely. You are so generous and kind– I know her life will be very different because of you!

  12. Hey, where's the new post that's supposed to be here?Justine :o )

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