I've been in my new job 9 weeks, in the house 12.
It is not a pretty area. I Tried to apply for a post in a pretty area, honest I did but the inner city calls me. hey.

Anyway, it's been fine so far. No vandalism, the church isn't even graffittied, it could be a lot worse.

Tonight I had to go out to visit someone about 8pm. They live in a complicated little development where I couldn't really get a car in, so I just walked. I stuck to bright streets, walked condiently and quickly but not hurriedly, and it was fine. (Also sent friends an email of where I was going).
However, I was just in, just gone to make my evening meal, when I heard big kids running round the derelict property just over my wall, smashing stuff. It was very close and it felt very threatening, cos I live alone.

So I called the police and, give them their due, less than a minute after I hung up I could hear the sirens coming up the hill. Obviously the louts had gone by then, and that's ok, as long's they're gone I don't care. Could have wished the officers hadn't called at my door tho, now the neighbourhood knows it was me that called them. sigh.

I'm fine. This is the place I was meant to be, I'm doing the job I'm meant to do. It's just a bit scary tonight. The central heating cooling down is making funny noises. Yes, i know it always does...... there's clearly no-one on my property, because it lights up like a Christmas tree if even a squirrel runs across the grass
BUT
if anyone could spare 2 minutes for a quick prayer for safety, I'd be Very Grateful!!!!!!


ps, good news even with the trauma, I stuck to my portions, which was half a small curry and half a small flat bread, I didn't even Think of consoling myself with food. so I may be found murdered in my bed but I won't have binged!!!!!

Be careful! I'll be praying for you!

I will be praying for your safety. There is a wonderful forum here called Christian Encouragers. Many great praying people there.

Take care of yourself. Are you able to have pets, like a nice big loud dog?

I have added you to my prayer list. I understand. My son is in seminary and is called to work in the inner-city as well. Safety is a constant concern. That being said, you have a powerful ally and constant Companion that is more powerful than any force on earth.

If you are doing what you feel called to do, rest in the assurance that a legion of angels will protect you if needed.

I know it can be a bit intimidating to live alone. I have spent many a night with the lights on and I still sleep with a night light.

May the Lord provide a shield of protection around you, an army of angels to prepare the places you are reaching, His amazing peace in your heart, and constant alertness in your mind, Ailidh!

Obviously, continue to use the brain He gave you as well! And awesome job not giving in to a comfort food binge after all that- you're a strong woman!

Oh Ailidh, I will certainly pray for you and I send you good thoughts. Stay safe!

I think it's really great that you were able to stay on your plan despite this. Way to go on not comforting with food!

Thankyou, you are very kind - and I made it through the night! And they didn't smash up my house. And I put the light out! (I know the feeling of leaving the light on, many, many times)

I've a ton of desk-based stuff to do today but it's a beautiful tho cold day, so going to spend some of the time walking one of the dogs around the area to get to know it better. (Got 5 dogs, all 13 years old but they make a good noise!)

Thanks again.

I will continue to pray for you.

I'm starting to have nights alone myself now (my partner now works away from home during the week), so I understand your uneasiness. I definitely don't sleep well when he is away....

I will hold you in my thoughts and prayers as you do your most important work in a dark place.....

Keep safe! I will pray for you as well. I also know what it is like to feel uneasy at home alone.

You're in my prayers as well. I truly don't think that I could ever live alone as I would jump at every noise (yes, I am a fraidy cat. ). I envy those that can.