So Not Prepared
All good things must come to an end . . . whether we are ready for it for not.
Dennis headed to Fairmont this morning to take in a trade show and catch up with friends who only see each other a few times a year. The weekend event had been on Dennis’ agenda for some time.
I began the Saturday morning with the Swiffer to take in all the dust bunnies. It is amazing how much lint can accumulate with just the two of us trumping through the home. Our laundry area is right off the kitchen, so I can respect that some of the bunnies escape in the general handling of clothes. As per the lint screen, I would be hard pressed to realize that there was more that could escape.
I was startled when I heard pounding on the door at the same time that the doorbell was ringing. When I saw a police officer, my heart immediately raced thinking of Dennis’ well being. Very politely the officer ask to come in and then he informed me that he had brought Jeff Curry to our garage porch. The officer went on to say Jeff was drunk and had been abandoned at the Super 8 Motel, by the woman who he and had checked in with the night before. I was so not prepared for this. Jeff had moved to Iowa sometime in the last four months, but it was not unusual that he would not stay in contact.
Jeff, at the age of 50, has battled alcohol for decades. When he is sober, you could not ask for a better person or worker. His skills in carpentry and all types of construction are stellar. Oh yes, he is always so sure he can handle “just one.”
So, here we are. One more time, out of how many times of having to wonder what to do with Jeff? I called Dennis and allowed him to know what was going on. The police officer and Dennis agreed that Jeff should stay in the porch until Dennis could get home. I was advised by the police to stay in the house with the door locked. People under the influence can be very persuasive and Jeff is a pro at it. In all honesty I cannot recount how many times we have been taken in emotionally – and financially.
I have no idea how this Saturday that started off so wonderfully will end. Jeff cannot stay here. Jeff’s two sisters here in town will not let him stay with them. When I informed the police officer that there was no where Jeff would be taken in, I did feel guilty. The officer was kind and reassured me that tough love cannot, and should not, waver. He also commented that the lifestyle of those who maintain their lifestyle through responsible behavior do not jeopardize that for an individual who has perhaps burned all the bridges afforded them.
Time will tell. I am waiting for Dennis to come home and I could not begin to know how this will end. This is not how 2015 should begin.