Roommates from Hell

Victoria Briars Victoria Briars July 12, 2018

Roommates from Hell

There are moments in our lives when we’ve reached a certain point and realize that we need to be transformed for the greater good. We recognize that our attitudes and/or beliefs may be inadequate for what we plan to be and/or do in the future. So, what do we do at this point? We decide to venture out, expose ourselves to new opportunities and environments, obtain as much knowledge as possible, change our perception, and transform ourselves per se. Sounds great doesn’t it? Well, on the contrary, it could be a problem if our main motive is to help speed up the process that God Himself has placed before us. He could be working with and on us in a specific area; and if we attempt to speed up the process, we may miss what He is actually trying to pull out of us, expose us to, and/or enlighten us with in the particular season. I speak from experience; and might I add, timing is everything.

An opportunity presented itself whereas I would live with 2 female roommates that I hadn't known previously. I saw it as the perfect opportunity to get out of my comfort zone, to form healthy sister relationships, to have accountability partners and ladies that I could give and take advice from, and to have friends that I could hang out with. Though I saw it as a positive; the Holy Spirit enlightened me that it would be just the opposite through dreams as well as face to face encounters. I acknowledged the warnings, spoke to individuals in my corner regarding them, and took hesitant steps forth regardless in my own right. I decided to take the risk.

"This will allow me to be a better woman as well as wife in the long run. It will increase my love and patience for people. They'll be the sisters I never had; and maybe it'll bring forth the healing I need. We can cook together, go shopping, and take road trips! I'm easy to get along with; and it's hard to get under my skin, so I will be fine. It's a luxury apartment in an upscale area not too far from work nor stores; so I'll survive especially with us splitting rent and utilities. If I have to move and break the lease, I'll just do what I have to do and keep my end of the deal as far as payout" I thought.

I was far from being right; it was one of the worst mistakes that I had ever made. It was very costly, traumatizing, and eye-opening as well. 1 Samuel 15:22: “Obedience is better than sacrifice” continually rang in my head. I will never do dumb -ish like that again. Excuse my language; but it represents the ultimate outcome. I refuse to return to that drama-filled hot mess. Every decision moving forward involves me riding and living solo unless of course I marry, have immediate family that needs a place to lay their heads for a while, or join an organization that requires it for a moment.

We held a meet and greet in July following the response to a Facebook post for roommates. The 2 ladies were friendly and very open; yet the conversations drained the life out of me. Breakups, bad relationships, and thrifting were the chosen topics following our ideas for the apartment as well as intros of who we were. Blah; I could not relate and was instead bored out of my mind. I smiled, nodded, and added input here and there. Thank God, there was a game on the tv overhead to grasp part of my attention. The 30 – year old was very longwinded and would not stop talking. Every sentence had at least 2 "umm's" and every response "mmhmmm." The youngest was about 22 and utilized profanity in nearly every sentence. She was very outspoken; and I admired that about her.

I had my reservations of whether or not it would work. Deep inside, “Hell no, this will be a major disaster! The oldest and I will definitely clash as far as our personalities are concerned. We are similar yet very different. The youngest is vibrant but just too profane. I would not want to hear her cussing on a daily basis.”

I cancelled the move-in with the ladies following the meet and greet as I was awaiting to hear from God on exactly what I should do. To be honest; I never received full direction to my knowledge and reacted on desperation and fear. What I heard was, “Wait on me.” The wait was becoming longer as the time shortened; and I simply lost faith. I refused to move back home with my parents; and I didn’t necessarily want to live in the other areas in comparison to the luxury apartment. I decided to move forward with them as roommates. It wasn't easy either. I prayed the door would be closed if it wasn't meant for me to walk through; yet it opened.

Each of the females jumped stupid when I asked if they had found an additional roomie for the 3rd bedroom. They stated that they hadn’t and questioned me as to why I changed my mind. It was dramatic from the beginning; but I made it very clear that if they didn't trust me since I cancelled at first that they didn't have to accept me as a roommate. I would instead continue seeking. Though I had other options lined up; I preferred the location of this particular apartment. They gave in; so I stepped in hesitantly and constantly questioned internally whether or not it was the best decision. There was no peace whatsoever about it; but I didn't know what to do. I was running out of time.

On September 5th, 2017, we obtained 3 keys to our new apartment. I was the 1st to move in and had the apartment to myself for the first 2 nights. Shall I say peaceful?! Hahaha, my furniture arrived about 3 days later. They followed suit as their schedules allowed. I would loveeeee to give you all of the juicy gossip; but I’m not that type of person. I’ve forgiven both of these ladies as they had no idea who they were in the presence of J. I have done them each a huge favor of not including their names nor location. The pictures can speak for themselves; however. Please note that they were taken and collected as evidence for the court initially should the situation have escalated. As to not be petty, I’ve also included areas whereas I could have been more openly communicative and firm.

Moving forward, please see the rundown of the 6 months of hell that I endured with these two:

v September 2017: The paperwork was late. Leases were not reviewed nor signed until the very last minute as if they had something better to do. Not! They laid around, scrolled through Instagram and Pinterest, and compared themselves to Instagram models for hours at a time. Uhhhh!! Is this normal for the average woman to do? I wouldn’t know, as I don’t fit the category ;) . On top of that, we almost paid the full rent as a deposit because the youngest did not provide her check stubs in a timely manner. The oldest decided not to pack until the day prior; and I helped her move a lot of her items as I’d finished my own.

v September 5^th, 2017: We were given the run around because things were out of order with the office. It took everything in me not to raise my voice. Apparently the oldest had automatic withdrawal for previous rent; so they overdrafted her account mistakenly. We had pre-purchased money orders; so we had to make 2 trips to Kroger, 1 to Bank of America, and 2 or 3 to the leasing office before we could obtain the keys. What should have taken less than 10 minutes took 2 – 3 hours.

v September 2017: The living spaces were an absolute mess for the first 3 – 4 weeks. The oldest had basically moved apartments; so there was a lot of unpacking and organization that she didn’t care to do right away. She was somewhat of a hoarder; but hey she had everything that anyone would need such as pots, pans, cooking utensils, dishwasher detergents, wine glasses, lamp shades, extra blankets, sofa, dining table, etc. Lol, and she even passed along a few clothes to me.

v September 2017: As we were still getting comfortable and getting to know one another, we danced and did an exercise segment on a given day. It was fun and entertaining! One of us may have gotten a little too comfortable though. The oldest decided to share a video of her dancing to Beyonce’ in granny panties. Her -ex didn’t appreciate it and neither did I. I personally was offended that she even showed us a video in her underwear. “Y’all don’t think granny panties are sexy?” She asked us in her country accent. Maybe for the old and deceased. “No, who wears granny panties especially for sex appeal? Thongs, bikinis, g-strings, and boy shorts are sexy, not granny panties,” I laughed and proclaimed. She then became slightly embarrassed and tried to throw shade stating that I look as if I wore granny panties. Female please! I have 2 pair of granny panties that my mom bought me over 10 years ago. True story lol and no, I don’t wear them often. Looking back, I believe that the right person could possibly make granny panties sexy; but more-so from that of a costume array.

As if the insult wasn’t enough, the oldest had the nerve to bash the youngest and I hair of choice; weaves and wigs. Because she was natural; she wanted everyone else to embrace their natural hair as well. She was very passionate about it and slightly psychotic about it. It was a pro and con in my opinion. At first, I considered her assistance in embracing my hair once again until I realized that the ingredients that she utilized in her products could have a negative effect on the skin itself. Unfortunately, she was living proof of it. How do you communicate that to someone who is so sure of themselves? Your face is suffering because of the hair products that you created consisting of blended oils and other ingredients. What works for your hair isn’t always good for your face nor skin as it can clog pores, lead to greater acne and blackheads, consist of human carcinogens, and/or dry out the skin according to studies and personal experience.

v September 29^th, 2017: We held a wine-tasting within the dining area. It was funny and demeaning at the same time. Old wine and old cheese provided to us by the oldest! Upon tasting the first three, they were very dull and dry; so I decided to ask how long she’d had the open bottles. Since her last roommate nearly 2 years ago and possibly longer! I poured it out, refused to finish it, and moved on to the next which were recently purchased. The cheese was a couple of months old after viewing the expiration date. Why did she do it? I assumed that she wanted to get rid of it. Thank God, that neither of us got sick from it!

She went on a date; and the younger roomie and I went to the club to finish the night off. She was hesitant at first and decided to take her time forcing us to miss the “Ladies free before 12.” I was slightly pissed as I could have used that money for more drinks; but it was awesome regardless! We had a great time and met a few local lawyers originally from Africa, though they didn’t seem to be. They invited us to the VIP section with bottle service; and the entertainment began! It was definitely a spontaneous night to remember; and I’m grateful that my roomie was there as I would not have made it home safely whatsoever ;p. She would not let it go though; as the story continued on for weeks lol.

v September 30^th, 2017: All three of us decided to explore the city via train. It was my first time ever on a train; so I was super excited! The oldest had never ridden public transportation; so she was thrilled as well. The youngest led the way. Somehow, we left later than expected once again meaning there was less daylight. What we didn’t know was today was the day for emergency drills meaning single-tracked trains and delays. We made the absolute best out of the situation; but it really was an unforgettable experience that I prefer to never have again.

When we reached our stop; we departed the train, walked about 10 minutes in the dark until we reached our destination, and then explored the strip. It was an odd part of town if you ask me yet very cultural, open, and accepting. On this particular journey, I witnessed the true essence of these ladies; and I wasn’t pleased with what I saw. They were very gullible, immature, immoral, and willing to try just about anything set before them. Paganism was quickly adopted; and it made me highly uncomfortable. I didn’t nor do I now know how to address it. Is there even a need to address it is the question? I believe in diversity, yes. Was I being slightly judgmental? Maybe; I won’t deny it though I see it as keen observations.

As many of you know, I don’t classify myself as a Christian but simply as a believer as I believe in and worship Christ Jesus as scripture states. What I don’t understand is how individuals can say that they believe in God; yet don’t trust Him to protect them nor cleanse them. Instead, they consult dark powers and forces for protection and cleansing practices. After this encounter, I decided to distance myself as it made me highly uncomfortable and went against my beliefs.

Upon our return home, it took us nearly 2 hours to get back as the train was single-tracked and we were forced to get on 2 separate buses as they continued the emergency drill. It was annoying yet rather amusing. I felt extremely bad for those who were traveling with suitcases and luggage to the airport. The bus was packed beyond capacity with the middle aisle full of tired and hungry passengers. We met a lot of crazy people that day!! Hahaha, this old man spotted us and came and sat next to us at the train station. His lips were oversized; and he was carrying a scarecrow doll in a bag. “Y’all some boo-utiful young ladies. My my, y’all real boo-utiful!! God smiled on me today. Yes, he did…” I was dying laughing; it was hilarious. The roomies remained calm and tried to ignore him; but I couldn’t. He was great entertainment. Thank you Jesus that he didn’t hurt us but simply complimented us.

v October 2017: In the early part of the month, I invited the youngest to go to church with me. She accepted and came along. We both enjoyed the service; and someone blessed her with monetary funds during offering time. She was surprised and grateful for the gift! Though she crushed on the pastor, it was pleasant having her with me at the time for the first and last time. She never returned afterwards. I had invited the oldest previously and she agreed to come; yet her hair was more important to air-dry inside when it was time to go. Looking back, maybe things could have been different if I was more persistent at asking and open to sharing personal input.

v October 2017: Upon the meet and greet as well as in the roommate agreement, I made it very clear not to leave dirty dishes in the sink as it is one of my biggest pet peeves. It’s absolutely disgusting! I prefer not to have to repeat myself especially amongst adults who know better. There was a nearly empty dishwasher available; yet the 30 – year old decided to load the kitchen sink with dishes for 3+ days at a time. Over the following months, it became normal for her even after the confrontation. To this day, I am not sure if she purposely wanted to raise my blood pressure, offend me, or if this was simply who she was.

As stated, I had distanced myself with a single “hi” and “bye” on any given occasion. I allowed the conversations to discontinue. If I had come out and said anything, it may have been like this, “What the hell is wrong with you? The dishwasher is empty, so use it, you trifling dirty heathen!” In all honesty, as much profanity as I’d heard on a daily basis, “b**ch” would have replaced “heathen.” I kept my mouth shut to keep the peace as I realized how she actually handled confrontation. She and an -ex had an argument over a bottle of water; enough said lol. Anywho, she texted me while I was at work one day and asked if there was something wrong. I didn’t respond to the message; and evidently she was highly offended by it. She was so offended that I became “b**ch” to her in the following confrontation.

Looking back, it would have been in my best interest to have responded to the text message; however, I preferred and still do today, to have face-to-face conversations so that things would not be misinterpreted. If I had responded truthfully, it probably would have still been a disagreement or argument as the issues dated back to the train and not simply the dishes alone. Once again, should it even have been addressed?

v October 20^th – 23^rd: I went to Destin, FL to celebrate my 25^th birthday!! We had a blast!! The original plan was to invite the roomies; but the youngest had quit both of her jobs that she had prior to moving into the apartment and was now driving Uber. She was a great risk; so I didn’t bother to invite her though I wanted to. Making rent was wayyy more important than joining me on vacation. She wished me a Happy Birthday which was appreciated. The oldest decided to take a vacation of her own and visit her family.

v October 2017: I came home from a very long day at work to Halloween decorations and candy throughout the kitchen and dining area. They were creating special treats for a party that would be hosted within our apartment from about 10PM – 4AM. As part of the agreement, every roommate was to be made aware of any special events, parties, etc. that would be held within the apartment. I was not made aware. In all honesty, I felt super lame. Hahaha, how do you not get invited to a party in your own place? I shrugged it off, showered, and went to sleep in my super cozy bed.

About 2 hours later; I awoke to a bunch of intoxicated female voices and loud music. Aaaahhh! I’m glad I wasn’t invited; I would have been extremely uncomfortable as it was a “females only” type of party with perverted conversations and games relating to the male and female genitalia. I was late for work the next morning; and we received a noise complaint from the leasing office.

v November 1^st, 2017: As the bills were near due, each individual issued screenshots to the group. To simply remind everyone, I stated, “And once again, the water, sewer, valet trash, etc. is due. It will be $32 per person.” I had sent it almost 2 weeks prior and pre-paid it; yet no one had followed up nor issued me their portions. The 30 – year old had the audacity to text back stating that I had an attitude through a text message! I was disgusted and decided not to text back. Once again, I prefer face-to-face interactions; so once I returned home that afternoon, I cooked a late lunch and awaited her return before I departed for work.

She entered into the living room; and I confronted her. “Hey. I want to confront you about the text message that you sent. Why do you think that I have an attitude?” “Because you do!” She stated haughtily while slamming the grocery down on the counter and nodding her head like a turkey. “No, I don’t!” I raised my voice. The next thing I knew is that it became a bitter argument. She called me a “stupid b**ch” out of nowhere. Her anger resembled total rage against me. The youngest had to be the mediator; and once again, I was able to see the essence of their beings.

Sadly, they were extremely upset at the fact that I distanced myself and wanted to be alone. They didn’t like the way I walked, held my head high as if I was better than them, the fact that I worked out to relieve stress, nor my body language. They told me that I was prideful for folding my arms during the argument as if I was closing myself off and didn’t care what they had to say. I was accused of causing drama; because I wanted to be alone! What kind of – ish was that? They weren’t fond of me saying hi and bye as they couldn’t hear me; they assumed that I ignored them. I didn’t want to hang out with nor converse with either of them. I wasn’t fond of the way that they spoke of others nor to each other, the perverted conversations late at night, how they viewed life and society, nor the fact that they left filthy dishes in the sink for days. I was disgusted with both of them and knew that I had made a terrible mistake signing a 13 – month lease. How do you voice that?

At the time and even today; I strongly believe it was a spiritual matter. There is no way possible that an individual could get that angry because someone wants to be alone. I didn’t do anything negative to either of them but simply distanced myself. This situation troubled me to my core; and I literally shed tears. “I have literally gotten myself into some stupid -ish with these two. OMG, I cannot believe this right now. Are you seriously upset and falsely accusing me of causing drama because I want to be alone?” were my innermost thoughts and questions. Though they had wronged me, cussed me out, and falsely accused me, I was slightly sympathetic and apologized for causing offense. I never received an apology from either of them concerning the matter; but I obtained peace as I forgave them and accepted the apology that I never got.

I brought up the issue of the filthy dishes in the sink for days at a time, and the oldest laughed about it as if it was funny. She then went on to ask why I hadn’t voiced my concern. Really? My response, “It has been. I made it clear multiple times and shouldn’t have to continually repeat myself. We are adults! I told you when we first spoke it was one of my biggest pet peeves, then during the meet and greet, and in the roommate agreement.” The youngest finally agreed as she was annoyed by it as well.

Laundry left in the washer for days was another problem. How do you forget that you put your clothes in the washer and dryer? I didn’t want to touch either of their laundry; but I will admit, I utilized the facilities every 2 weeks and when I needed to use them, I threw their laundry out and put mine in. If it fell on the floor, it was not my problem. If removed when it should have been removed; we wouldn’t have had a problem.

The youngest was great with cleaning the bathroom on a weekly basis. I applauded her for it. The cleanliness of the bathtub was seen differently; however. I made it very clear upon the meet and greet that I was not fond of getting on my knees to scrub stains, footprints, nor soap scum; so flips flops allowed me to be carefree and responsible for cleaning the bathtub no more than twice per week. I advised the youngest to wear shower shoes/flip flops when she showered to avoid having to scrub her dirty footprints on a daily basis. Apparently, she enjoyed cleaning and scrubbing day-to-day as she continued without.

There were instances that the youngest would clog the toilet with tissue and God knows what else. I learned not to flush it when she did it; so I wouldn’t be blamed if it overflowed. The first time that it nearly happened; my heart sank as I thought I was being helpful by flushing it. Nope! The water surrounded the top of the bowl, stood there for a moment, and then receded. I had never utilized a plunger and preferred not to start.

v November 2017: The youngest became more consistent at cleaning the dishes and/or simply placing them in the dishwasher. She attempted to be a team player. The oldest was rather ruthless and still refused. The only time that she cleaned up the kitchen was typically when one of her men were coming over to visit. It was quite deceptive; and I felt and still feel bad for whoever falls into that pit.

v December 2017: Around this time, communication was nonexistent aside from when the bills were due. It became more awkward as the days went by especially during the holiday season. I decided to disappear out of town for Christmas as well as New Years. Beach Life is my love life!. J

v January 30^th, 2018: I finally decided that I would live by Instincts in the year 2018. As I was highly uncomfortable, traumatized, and annoyed by the living situation, I spoke with the leasing manager in reference to moving. I assumed that it would be a complicated process; however, she made it easy for me to understand. The roomies simply had to release me from the lease.

I made them aware of the exact date (March 30^th) that I would be moving out via text and that I would assist with finding a new roommate as stated in the roommate agreement. Why via text? Because when dealing with these two, it seemed to be the best tool as to not cause as much offense and to be as clear as possible in writing that could be referenced if needed in the future. I made it crystal clear that if they wanted to discuss the matter, I would be home at 8pm that night and available to answer any questions or concerns. I made myself available in the kitchen and dining area as I finished preparing my dinner; and as they entered, each went straight to their rooms without any discussion. Email would have been another great tool to utilize; however, not everyone checks their email in a timely manner. They saw it as soon as it was sent. I assumed that they discussed it amongst themselves as they always did since they both responded around the same time in agreement with best wishes to my request. I was ecstatic; however, they didn’t release me right away. They decided to bring more hell along first by throwing away some of my food that I had recently purchased, rearranging the refrigerator, and taking over the little space that I did have. I was beyond annoyed but laughed about it then moved their items out of my space. It was extremely petty and reckless considering the fact that the freezer was full beyond capacity mainly by the oldest; and now she wanted to take over the refrigerator as if she lacked space for her to-go boxes. It could have easily been resolved if she would have downsized and put the food into bowls instead.

v February 20^th, 2018: I had just departed the gym close to 11PM; so I was extremely tired, sweaty, and hungry. When I reached the apartment and utilized my key to open the door, it would not open. “Are you serious right now? I know this crazy female (the youngest) did not lock me out!” I thought. I banged on the door about 5 times initially, then again. I called her cell phone; and there was no answer. I banged on the window about 7 times and yelled her name. Still, no answer. I texted her and waited about 2 minutes before returning to the car to call the non-emergency police number. They were soon in route. I returned to the door and knocked again, no answer. I then went back to my car and waited for the police who literally arrived within the next 2 minutes. I removed myself from the vehicle to meet them. They had a lot of questions before entering the property which was understandable.

Upon the two officers’ arrival to the front door within a few knocks, the youngest was at the door. She convinced them that she was sleep and had not heard anything. When the officers returned to my presence, they extended the information. Whether or not she was telling the truth, I will never know. I thanked the officers and entered the apartment. She was in the bathroom and did not come out until I closed the door to my bedroom. She refused to apologize face-to-face. Instead she texted me; “I’m so sorry. I fell asleep and…”

My mental reaction, “B**ch, please! As loud as I knocked and banged on the windows and door, you would have heard something.” I didn’t voice my frustration; however. Instead, I utilized sarcasm, “It’s fine. Just be glad that you awoke before the officers knocked down the door J .” If they had, I would not have paid for it whatsoever since technically it wasn’t my fault. It could have stayed down as my bedroom door was locked with my personal possessions. I know that it was petty thinking; but that’s how I truly felt. The oldest arrived the following morning.

v March 20^th, 2018: With only 10 days left of living with these two, I was euphoric! Though, I wouldn’t be able to move into my own apartment until April 11^th, it didn’t matter as I was desperate to sever this nightmare. As I was exposed to it on a daily basis, profanity filled my thoughts in nearly every “smart mouth” response. I was at work when I received a text from the youngest asking if I was still moving at the end of the month. I responded, yes, and informed her that finding a replacement has had its challenges, but I had a few more interested candidates coming by later in the week. She went off through a 15 - response thread; because I had invited a few individuals to see my room and the living spaces.

I had spoken with about 15 - 20 different people in the last 2 months; and only 3 had even seen the apartment. Once majority of the people were aware that two African American ladies were sharing the apartment; they were no longer interested. Sad but true. The distance from certain parts of town played a huge factor as well. The fact that I was desperate to find a replacement could have been unknowingly displayed also, though I hid it to the best of my ability.

When people asked; “Why are you moving? How would you describe the current roommates?” I lied, “I’m moving to be much closer to my job. I’m getting married soon; and moving in with my boyfriend/fiancé. The roommates are great! The ladies are awesome; you’ll definitely enjoy them.” Anywho, my reply to her thread went as follows: “I’m not doing this thru text message. Whatever needs to be discussed can be discussed when I get home. Neither of you said anything 2 months ago when I made it clear that if discussion was needed, I’d be open. I posted it in January after delivering the message. I’ve been extremely tolerant and patient the entire time. I understand my rights; and I’m moving forward.”

There was no response right after. It nearly rose my blood pressure. I worked constantly day and night trying to find a suitable replacement which was insane of me as they would have to live with the person. They never followed up nor provided any assistance but came to me with bullcrap at the last minute. To protect myself and my Scorpio dark side, I invited an officer to be the mediator. Whatever had to be said or done would be on record if it got out of hand.

Upon receipt that an officer was in route, I was called, “Crazy, stupid b**ch, mother f**king b**ch, and everything in between. It took everything in me not to cut a hoe. I literally told the operator that an officer was needed to mediate as there would be no guarantee that someone wouldn’t get hurt. They provoked me; yet God instilled a patience and peace within me. The silly females were not worth me getting my hands nor record dirty. It was almost over.

The officer arrived and the “discussion” became a loud uncontrolled argument. There was no common ground whatsoever. I confessed how miserable I was living there, how dirty, inconsiderate, ignorant, and profane they were, that I was moving because of it, and how I had made the dumbest mistake signing a lease with them. I also informed him exactly why he was there to mediate for the bull crap that had just risen.

Lies proceeded from the youngest and the oldest accusing me of causing drama, being loud, not washing dishes, leaving blood on the floor, being jealous of them, etc. I could not believe what I was hearing; and yes, I stood my ground. The only truth that came forth was how we met through a Facebook post and that I wanted out of the lease. The officer was overwhelmed yet amused and informed us to all go to the leasing office to speak with the property manager in regards to the issue.

He was there; yet the issue was not handled per se as the discussion didn’t take place; it was simply an argument. Their final words were, “We’re not releasing you.” A sly grin came across my face as I voiced my objective; and the Scorpio rose up. She shall strike when you least expect it.

v March 2018: I did not allow their words nor threats to get to me; I knew that I had to leave. I called the leasing office and spoke with the property manager. She informed me not to worry; but we would all have to come to the office and sign the papers to release me.

v March 31^st, 2018: I removed all of my personal items and clothes on March 30^th. My furniture was removed on the 31^st. Upon my departure the oldest continued to nag me, “Are you returning your keys today?” “Yes, I’m returning them in about 15 minutes when we finish loading the furniture. Remember that you two have to still release me,” I stated. “We’ll release you when we find a new roommate,” she rudely uttered. I was like ok; suit yourself.

v April 2018: I intended to pay April’s rent before time as usual until I realized that neither of them could be trusted; so I waited and waited. They hadn’t been searching for a new roommate consistently; and I was not aware of the current status of those that I had sent to them. Why should I continue to pay rent for them to bring God knows who into the room that I no longer occupy? Do I look like a fool to you? As a business woman; the oldest could have easily rented the room out for a profit; but she wanted to act foolish.

They attempted to text me stating that the rent was due. I informed them that any form of communication would have to go through the office at this point. I decided not to pay the rent on time to simply scare them. I already had an apartment secured; so it didn’t bother me personally nor would it affect my credit much. They hit panic mode, “Are you going to pay your portion of the rent?” No response from me.

They eventually received an eviction notice; and I received a call from the property manager. I explained to her that I was aware of the rent; however, I would not pay anything until I was released as agreed upon. She set up a meeting with all of us the following day. I paid the missing portion of the rent as agreed on the following Monday and severed the nightmare only to receive 2 additional calls from them each stating that the office had not received the rent. Lies. “I just left the office less than 2 hours ago and delivered the money order,” I stated. The responses were, “Oh, ok. Thank you.” I called the office to determine the issue; and it was received. Next, I blocked their numbers and severed the nightmare entirely. Farewell Roommates from Hell!!

Reflection:

Why did I have to go through this for 6 months? Maybe I needed to see the light in the midst of darkness and not necessarily just be a light. I cannot necessarily say that I was a light to them as I was very distant; however, my coworkers saw me on a daily basis and were very aware of what I was going through; yet I did not allow it to affect my performance, personality, nor love for others. Maybe I had to learn to heed warnings regardless of the lack of full instruction when I desired to have it at a given moment. Maybe I had to find my way. Maybe I needed to recognize that being on my own is best for me as people have the tendency to become an easy distraction for me.

Maybe God wanted me to realize that obedience is better than sacrifice. Maybe there was a part of me, patience in particular, that needed to develop. Maybe I needed to be made aware of where I stood in my love walk; if that was the case, I was not in good standing. Maybe God allowed this so that I would know what it feels like to settle in less than His best for me; when you compromise because of what you cannot see. Maybe my flesh needed to die…

As of right now, I’m still seeking full clarity. However, I’m grateful, so grateful for freedom, for solitude, and another chance. God is faithful even when we’re not.