I live in the UK. A long time ago I was a founder member of a relatively successful band called “City Boy.” I was married in 1978 and we had two sons. My music career came to an end in 1982, and I returned to my former career as a teacher – mainly of maths, and some music.
I divorced my wife in 2002 because of her unreasonable behaviour – her seeking to control everything in my life became too much – but I decided to leave the house (which we co-owned) to her, so that she and the boys could continue to live there. She reneged on that arrangement, but the main consequence of my decision was that I had obviously begun to live in rented accommodation, which I have done ever since. My ex-wife proceeded to spoil my name, not only amongst my friends, but even my family, including my sons.
I was very depressed during that time, but then I met an extraordinary lady from Africa. (She had raised nine young boys from the streets of Nairobi, with her husband, over a number of years, in their home. They had all become responsible citizens of Kenya, and two of them subsequently became American citizens). She transformed my whole perspective on everything, and she effectively saved my life! When her husband died, I resolved to support her (and her son), and I have done so since. I gave my lady’s son my multi-track recorder some years ago. Both he and his mother are extremely talented singers, musicians and songwriters. What he does with it is staggering… if only we had the resources to set up a proper recording studio, he could make a lot of money.
We have now lived together for some years – not co-habiting – and I would love to marry her, but what can I offer her? I have no savings. Our outgoings generally far exceed our income.
I recently lost my job. I had been asking colleagues for assistance – simply out of desperation. Most people agree that terminating my employment was too severe a sanction, but the conciliation service I asked to represent me has not succeeded in convincing my former employer of that.
I have a passion for teaching, almost as much as my passion for music, and I know I am an effective teacher (I have many positive comments from recent students of mine).
I am 74, but I love to work. The word “retirement” is, simply, not in my vocabulary. Right now, I’m desperately seeking a new post, but I don’t own a car, so that prevents me even from doing supply (substitute) teaching unless I can get there on public transport.
Despite our dire circumstances, this lady has supported me through thick and thin… I contracted pneumonia in 2019, and she never doubted that I would survive. I know that she was responsible for my still being alive today.
We’re hoping for a turning point in our lives right now.
PayPal.me@LaurenceMThomas