This is What Happened and the Why Behind the Movement

It was time for me to make a move. It had been 5 days, and no one was coming to get me. I had been 'staying' at the baggage claim area of the San Diego International Airport, Terminal 2. It was a safe and free option while I thought of my next steps.

I had chosen an airplane ticket returning home to San Diego, rather than living someone else's idea of how I should be living. I had the freedom to choose how to live my life. I was at the right place at the right time. I was so happy and satisfied that I was where I could do what I was meant to do.

I did not worry that I had no income, no home or no romantic relationship. I knew that the way would be should to me, and I would be taken care of.

After 5 days at the airport, it was clear to me no one was coming to 'rescue me.' It was up to me to rescue myself. It was time for me to activitate the back-up plan. If nothing else transpired, I knew there was a safe and good place for women that I could go to.

How did I know that this place even existed?!

Because 20 years earlier my young women's group, had a Teddy Bear Drive and Rachel's Women's Center was one of several local organizations benefiting.

When I first called Rachel's they were full. The city was still in the midst of a big rain storm. I knew it would pass. I prayed for sunshine. A few days later I called again and was invited to breakfast and intake. I ubered over in the morning leaving the baggage claim area.

I arrived at Rachel's wearing flared leopard-print pants, and a faux- fur coat. I was welcomed with love and respect, and stayed several months. It was one of the best thing that ever happened to me!

I will be forever grateful for the women I met, and for what I learned there.