Good Ol' Gladys

Night traveling is comfy on this rainy day. The Amtrak train service is crowded but first class seating is more like it. Packing her own peanut butter sandwiches and bottled kool-aid, Oda Mae reflects on the reason for leaving her family behind. Twenty-two year old diva from head to toe always make sure her appearance is up to par. Constant criticism of the way she carry herself as a young woman is often badgered by kin members. One who likes to wear baggy jeans and sport bras around the house best describes a spot-on comfort zone. 'Time for me to move on to much better sight-sees' says Oda. Nothing happening for a lady discovering herself round these parts. After doing some research on housing market, South Macon Georgia would be a fair fit. Having the ability to sustain all basic needs on a fixed income is Oda Mae's best bet. Eight hundred dollars per month for SSI benefit assist with rent, food, electric and water billings. There is an affordable advantage compared to the high cost of living in Trenton, New Jersey. Stealing away in middle of the night was a norm for Oda. This time she had in mind to leave for good. Without informing anyone in her family of the decision, she takes a cab ride to train station and hops aboard. Oda makes it to downtown destination and request that a taxi driver takes her to the nearest hotel, The Macon Inn. 'I only want to stay a week' ,she spoke. Going rate is forty bucks a day. There is a mini fridge, microwave, cable television, bed with clean linen, toiletries and private shower in room. 'Here are your keys to room 29', said attendee. It's a blessing that Oda saved money in her bank account because she would need every penny of the supplemental security income upon housing placement. Walking over to Willingham Realty, a property management corporation became next mission. Following inquiry and looking over a scroll of apartment rentals, Mae decided to go with a two bedroom duplex on the south side. You need a money order for $250 as security deposit and first month's rent, said Realtor. Oda sets out to get one then returns with payment as requested. Be sure to sign your lease and here are the front door keys, says property management secretary. Before entering her duplex, Oda is stopped by a next door neighbor Miss Gladys. If you need anything at all I'm a doorstep away she spoke. Once being young and explorational on her own came only as a rememberance. Gladys is nearly three times Oda Mae's age. Oda invited Gladys into her place. The concerned neighbor let the female know about Badcock Furniture Store, where she could pay a monthly payment based on credit qualifications. Few hours later, Oda rode with Gladys to get bedroom and living room sets. The delivery men will have it to your house by tomorrow morning but I have a blow up mattress for your bedding you can borrow until then, said Gladys. 'I bought a box of Church's Chicken ' from a nearby fast food restaurant, would you like to have some my dear?. Sure I'm starving , replied Mae. Oda go home and falls asleep. Early the following morning, delivery men with a red uniform knocks a couple times before she opens the door. We have your furniture outside in the moving truck (Budget Truck Rental), can we please come in? said Billy Bob. The guys set up shop then leave. Right away Oda uses her cell phone to meet with random dudes on the local chatline in Macon, GA area. Catching the ear of one, she allows him to have phone number and address upon request. That is a big no-no without acquiring knowledge of person in an open public space. Turns out Hector is a woman abuser who leaches off her. Following a three-month long relationship, Gladys tells Oda to be mindful of self and do not let anyone distract her mission of being an independent productive member in society. Mae chooses the opposite attract by continuing the pattern. Ends up being late on the rent for the first time. She receives an eviction notice soon after. Sobbing on the front step of her duplex apartment, Oda is asked by Miss Gladys, what's wrong? I'm being forced out my home because I gave my boyfriend part of rent money. He sits next to Oda and states 'that's her business not mines'. Gladys look at Oda Mae with the expression of pity. Senior citizen says 'I feel sorry for you but big girls have to learn the hard way just like I did coming into my own'. It's clear a trying sister such as yourself don't want to return home to family however that may be your best bet.