My name is Ruth, and I am the youngest of three children. I experienced domestic violence early in my life and the many issues that come with it; divorce, alcoholism and sexual abuse. I escaped many times from these situations. At age 14, I started working as a housekeeper, then as a nanny and later as a waitress. I knew I was getting no where in these jobs. I realized I had to go back to school in order to have a better life.
I started to work on my education by coming to Mercy Learning Center in 2007. I liked Mercy Learning Center because I was able to learn different subjects. The teachers were very motivating and they really cared about me. Unfortunately, I found myself again in trouble and missed many days of school. One day, Jane noticed the abuse marks on my arm and neck. I got the help I needed from the social worker at Mercy Learning Center. Jane really believed in me. She told me that I needed to attend classes every day if I wanted to get my GED.
I know that education has made me strong. This year I have not missed a day of class. I no longer feel powerless. Everyone at Mercy Learning Center is so encouraging to me and the other women there. They tell me every day that "I can do it!" I am really serious about getting my education, and I hope to take the GED test in November. When I pass, I want to go on to college.
There are hundreds of women who come there every day - with the hope that they can make changes in their lives. I speak for all of them when I tell you how much we appreciate the people who help us become more educated.
|
