“It’s really heavy,” the seller from Facebook Marketplace messaged me. “You’ll need to bring someone along.”
“You might be surprised by what I can handle,” I replied.
After checking her profile to ensure she was a legitimate seller and not a sociopath luring me into a trap with discounted furniture, I arrived at her home to inspect the oversized chair and matching ottoman she was offering.
Furniture Shopping Tips
Here’s a tip about buying furniture on Facebook Marketplace: it’s often larger than it appears in photos. This chair was massive. I tested its weight by lifting one corner and quickly realized there was no way I could carry it out of her house on my own.
“Are you sure you can manage this?” she asked, resting a hand on her arm cast to emphasize her inability to assist.
“I’ve got this.”
This wasn’t my first time wrestling a hefty piece of furniture into my SUV using sheer determination, creativity, and a bit of sweat. I positioned my vehicle as close as possible to her front door and, with her watching, carefully maneuvered the chair out while trying not to damage its pristine fabric. I could sense her skepticism as I rolled the bulky chair down the walkway and wedged it into the back of my car. The ottoman was light enough for me to carry with ease.
After paying her a mere $35, I returned home and reversed the process, and I was thrilled with my new additions to my living space.
Embracing Independence
Interestingly, moving that chair was a walk in the park compared to some other furniture rescues I’ve accomplished. Just the week prior, I rescued two towering wooden cabinets from the curb. Picture me, 5’4” and medium build, struggling to carry a 6-foot cabinet while laughing and sweating as I waddled across a stranger’s lawn. Seriously, who tosses out perfectly good solid wood furniture with working lights?
I’ve moved hefty desks and couches all by myself because I’m on my own now. I could ask my ex-husband for help—he did assist with putting up hurricane shutters when Dorian approached—but I prefer to get things done on my own timeline. I no longer want to rely on anyone else.
Being independent has revealed my hidden strengths. One day, shortly after moving into my new house, I discovered a dead frog stuck in the track of my sliding glass door. It wasn’t a simple clean-up; I had to dig it out, and it took me a week to muster the courage. But when I finally did, armed with a butter knife, I pulled it out. I nearly gagged, but I conquered that task!
Then, a couple of weeks after moving in, I had to replace a mailbox that someone had hit. I installed the new one myself—something I would’ve left for my husband in the past.
Overcoming Challenges
Initially, I worried about managing home repairs alone. What about the “manly” chores like killing spiders, cleaning gutters, or lawn care? I used to think women weren’t cut out for these tasks. But living independently has shown me that when it comes down to it, you find a way to get things done.
When you’re on your own, you become resourceful. While I might not be able to lift a 200-pound desk solo, I can use leverage to maneuver it. Dead animals and slimy critters? I’ll just hold my breath and dive in with gloves on.
Whatever the challenge, I’m ready to tackle it head-on. While I might not always do it gracefully, I always find a way to finish what I start. For the tasks that require more time, I hire help. My lawn care professional does a stellar job for just $30, which saves me countless hours and money on equipment.
It took my independence to realize just how capable I truly am. If you’re like I once was, doubting your strength to be self-sufficient, I’m here to tell you that you are more resilient than you think. You’re creative, fierce, and ready to take on the world. My hope for you is that you discover this about yourself without having to face a significant life change first.
Summary
This piece reflects on the author’s journey of self-discovery and empowerment after divorce. Through various challenges, from moving heavy furniture to handling home repairs, she uncovers her strength and capability. Emphasizing the importance of independence and creativity, she encourages others to recognize their inner resilience.
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