They say that "the worse happens so that the best can come". For many years, I probably stood with others staring blankly at this statement without quite understanding its depths. Life for me has been one battle after another with never a single moment of peace from battle to battle. From the events of my life, I take one ample truth, problems never persist except if we allowed them. As long as I have breath, I will never submit.
In one of my previous blog posts, I mentioned going back on the streets looking to rent yet another apartment for my family after an unexpected eviction notice. This was not due to rental defaults or any inability to pay rent, but because of false information passed through a house agent who could not properly understand what the owner intended.
Three months ago, the new owner wanted us out for renovations. The house agent said only roof repairs were going on, so we might not have to move. I was negotiating with the owner, who revealed three weeks ago that she needed to occupy the apartment himself
For three weeks now, I have walked every street appealing for any vacant apartment. The rental situation has changed: landlords now work predominantly through agents, and the apartments available for rent go for twice the price I am paying now.
Still, I battled onward in my search for something I could afford. What I found today was not just suitable but far exceeded my expectations. Maybe that opening statement is coming into play in my life: after worst showing up, I'm heading toward the best apartment I have ever had since I started my house journey.
This new rent went up 50 % from what I'm currently paying; however, the comfort and facilities offered will justify the increase. Imagine an entire building insulated for you and your family with no shared space or neighbors - an exclusive use. The compound is secured with a fence and strong and enclosed iron gate. Accustomed space for children to play, and room for a home garden.
One peculiar element is that an old borehole is present on site, which the owner used for selling water to the neighborhood. That facility will now be wholly mine if I can just repair the pumping machine and flush the pipes.
Without much fuss, I have deposited a significant part of the rent with the caretaker, assuring him I will settle the balance in two weeks. The total rent is about $250; out of which I have already paid $200 - leaving $50 due before I get the key and move in.
The daily searches and costs of transport really drained my energy, but at least I now have something to smile over, even if I haven't yet secured the remaining $50. With temporary borrowing, I can make this cash within two weeks.
This is just one way that really speaks to how life's challenges have a sneaky way of ushering one to greater things.