Chapter 16 - Homeless Survival Guide

I was taking copious notes for myself as my memory wasn't great during this traumatic time. I turned them into a survival guide. 

1. Single ladies should not go to shelters, as they are too vulnerable. There are as many evil women as there are evil men. You will lose more than your possessions unless you are tough as nails. I'm not. So, I didn't even try it. 

2. Gym memberships are great for showers, toilets, etc. Especialy if it is a 24 hour gym. Note to self: Don't show up looking scruffy if you want to come back again. 

3. Use laundromats. Keep your clothes clean at all times. There is no need to bring notice to your situation if you can help it. If people do notice, they take pity, and that makes you feel even worse. So, keep clean and keep your chin up. 

4. Baby wipes are great for hands, faces, and cleaning up messes. Keep your space clean. 

5. Buy protein, such as canned tuna or beans, as that satiates your hunger longer. 

6. Buy bottled water. Don't drink random water as you cannot be sure what it contains, and you don't want montezuma's revenge when you aren't close to a bathroom. This reminds me, if you can help it, do NOT become homeless during a pandemic, when bathrooms and gyms are closed.

7. Use tea tree oil for bug spray. It is much cheaper than "OFF" and much safer for you.

8. Get a fur baby.  Don't argue with me. Just do it. 

9. Buy a small tent for campgrounds that don’t allow car camping. Hang misting hoses to keep you cool in the summer.

10. If someone is willing to rent a room to you: they want sex.  

11. Sign up for all the local food bank and pantries. Get coolers and ice to keep cold things cold. 

12. If you can, make it an adventure. Explore parks you wouldn't normally go. Enjoy God's beauty. Sit in the grass.  Look at the stars. 

13. Save your money: Don’t go to hotels unless necessary, because somebody always gets sick and then you need a hotel. 

14. Pray, without ceasing, for a safe roof over your head.

15. Put a list together of all the things you can do to improve your situation. Strive to complete at least 1 thing on that list every day. 

16. Celebrate each win and every accomplishment no matter how small. Stay positive. Be grateful for each little blessing that comes your way. Read Phil 4:8 again. 

17. Most important:  don't give up HOPE.  

I pray your cup runs over, your hope is eternal, and your heart is full.