The Labour Day weekend of 2023 was not how I’d imagined spending it. The rush to sell, donate, or toss as much of my belongings as possible before the Sheriff arrived was chaotic. But how did I end up in this predicament?
In 2020, I left a 23-year marriage, and we sold our house amidst the early days of lockdown. The sale provided a decent profit so I felt financially secure. I invested in a new wardrobe, fresh furniture, and even a brand-new truck—something I definitely needed living in rural central Ontario. I envisioned my coaching business taking off. After all, I was dedicated to a mission related to sexuality, and surely the success would follow. Simultaneously, I worked as an escort, which initially brought in significant income. But as people returned to their routines, my client base dwindled, and financial pressure mounted. Missed rent payments accumulated, and despite my typical optimistic assumption that things would somehow work out, reality hit hard. By late August, eviction loomed, and panic set in. The uncertainty and looming loss led me into a dark place where I questioned my worth and contemplated ending it all. Yet, in those dark moments, something remarkable happened. My love for my pets and concern for my community sparked a glimmer of hope. How could I leave them with unanswered questions and grief?
The realization that my purpose was to help others heal kept me grounded. Reaching out to a crisis line was a turning point. I found clarity and a renewed sense of purpose. The following weeks were a whirlwind, but with the incredible support of friends who offered their homes and a casual offer to house-sit, I found an unexpected opportunity. My friends, many of whom are entrepreneurs, encouraged me to start a house-sitting business. It seemed like a perfect fit. I adore animals and soon began posting on social media. The response was overwhelming, and my new venture took off. By the end of December 2023, I had started booking house/pet sitting gigs and my business was consistently growing.
Through this experience, I discovered a strength I didn’t know I had. I learned to adapt, problem-solve, and persevere in the face of adversity. The challenges of impending homelessness were terrifying, but my stubbornness and determination kept me moving forward. In addition to professional growth, I’ve found personal joy. I started seeing someone new—a kind, caring man who has brought warmth and happiness into my life. Sometimes, even in the most challenging times, silver linings emerge.
The core lesson of this journey is resilience. No matter how bleak things seem, never give up. You are stronger than you realize, and asking for help is not a sign of weakness but a step toward healing and growth. Embrace the support around you, and trust that even the darkest moments can lead to profound transformation. Remember, your strength lies in your ability to keep moving forward, no matter the obstacles. And sometimes, reaching out for help can open doors to opportunities you never imagined. Stay resilient, keep believing, and know that you have the power to overcome even the toughest challenges.
