Moving Forward

FROM THE INVISIBLE OBSTACLES SERIES

AMERICAN CRUCIBLE, Part 8

As told by Arpine Babloyan
Photography & Editing by Ashia Ray

“Knowing that I’ve moved a mountain – and that’s really how it feels – I am completely unfazed with anything.”

– Arpine B.

Image Description: Bianca walks ahead of Arpine along the sidewalk of a sunny outdoor mall.

HOW FAR WE’VE COME

Going through the divorce and a few years after felt like it was the hardest time of my life. But it taught me a few lessons.

It taught me how to find happiness in little things, and strangely, I came out of this experience a more positive person. I’ve found my strengths and learned my ways.

Looking back at it, I wish there was a page, a site, or a way of having all the resources I searched hundreds of pages to find, in one place. I am grateful for the opportunity to share what helped me, and hopefully it will help someone else who may be in the same situation.

RESOURCES FOR DIVORCÉE PARENTS

2-1-1.org

USA & Canada

If you are embarrassed of the situation you are in (like I was), 211.org is a good way to get assistance discreetly.

This site provides free and confidential assistance to find resources for situations such as crisis and emotional help, to assistance finding food, housing, etc. Especially on the food front – there are many local churches, pantries and food markets that offer food, and many of these services are open to the wider public.

Free Financial Counseling with Money Management International

USA

This financial website provides is free financial counseling. This was a life-saver and I wish I’d found them sooner (before I spent money I didn’t have on financial advisors who told me I need to put more of the money I didn’t have into retirement account!)

They have a few offices in the Boston area, the counselor I spoke with was so helpful, resourceful, and motivating, and really took the time to understand my situation rather than providing cookie-cutter suggestions. I can’t thank her enough. They also offer many free financial workshops all over the country, and in multiple languages.

USA Foreclosure Law Guide

USA

For families in a foreclosure situation, it may be helpful to understand the laws of your specific state.

Alan Kessler’s Karate Center

Billerica, MA, USA (Northwest suburbs of Boston)

When I got a little bit better financially, I started thinking of the best way to spend money I’ve had left over after all the bills and necessities. And rather than getting material things, I opted for the experience, and enrolled – both my daughter and myself – into karate at Alan Kessler’s Karate Center.

For many years, the Center became like a second home to us. We practiced together, focusing on karate helped relax, release stress and free our minds – it was a great family experience that I would recommend to anyone.

Free Massachusetts Events with Boston Central

Greater Boston & Suburbs

Boston Central was a life-saver when I was looking for places to go and things to do that didn’t cost an arm and a leg (or, didn’t cost anything at all).

Life-Changing Zumba Fitness with Arpine

Woburn & Billerica, MA, USA (Northwest suburbs of Boston)

I’ve recently read somewhere that a good way to find joy is by doing something you enjoyed doing when you were younger, or during the years of your life you consider your best. To me – it was dancing, and through the passion of Zumba and dancing I connect with the part of myself that lets go of any barriers and faces the world with an open heart – like I used to be.

Almost two years ago, in pursuit of a long time dream an out of passion for dance I’ve had all my life, I became a Zumba® Fitness instructor. Zumba is a Latin-inspired dance fitness workout that fuses national and international rhythms.

It is super fun and feels more like a party than a workout. I’ve been doing it for many years and have always wanted to teach it, but never had the courage until 2 years ago, and it truly changed my life.

It’s rewarding to share this passion with my students. If you’re in the area, I’d love to connect with you. Visit Zumba Fitness with Arpine on the web or follow my Zumba Page on Facebook for events and updates.