All I need to do is run away.

[Dudley]

It's not original, but it's true.

I want to run away from my home, and everyone I know. I've had natural urges as a kid to run away from home before, so it's nothing new. I used to pack my bags and everything too..

Anyways, I want to run away. I'm only sixteen, and I'm turning seventeen sometime this year. I have $300 I saved from working over the past six months, but I don't know how far that could get me. Also, the east coast is in a pretty sucky situation with the snow patterns and all, so as you could imagine I would hate to run away only to die somewhere in the cold.

I am motivated though. Home is a bit of a sticky situation. I'm not abused, but I sure as hell am neglected here. No one listens to me, not even my peers. This town is also filled with morons. I see the world on a different level, and I know I deserve better from the way I am treated. I might sound pretentious, but I am a lot like Holden Caulfield if you wanna put it that way. Whatever the matter, I just need assistance, please. I'm new to this board and hadn't even known of its existence until I actually searched up my dilemma.

Should I bring my things with me? Should I leave a note? Has anyone been successful in doing this? I love my guitar and I'd hate to leave it behind.


Ps. I am fine with being on my own, but another side of me does not want to go through this alone.

[ccsmod3]

Re: All I need to do is run away.

Dear Dudley,

Thanks for reaching out. It sounds like you've been seriously considering running away for some time now and have made some plans, but have some reservations at the same time. We imagine it's hard trying to figure out a working solution with $300 to start and without having the weather in your favor. We're also very sorry to hear your home life is so sticky. Even if you aren't dealing with abuse, neglect is not fun on top of feeling not listened to by anyone. As far as some of the questions you raise, they are all valid, but they can be hard to answer ahead of time.

We aren't here to make the decision for you, but we can listen/provide support and discuss possible options. We also have a resource database where we can look up shelters and other types of support. Since we don't know your current city/state, here is a National resource to start with if you do end up as a runaway on the streets. Not all cities participate, but National Safe Place can still be a starting point. http://nationalsafeplace.org/ It's a network of public places (grocery stores, fire stations, etc.) that work with local youth shelters to help young people in need. Hopefully this gives you a start and if you'd like to continue talking to us, we're available to talk immediately either by calling our hotline or through Live Chat. Good luck and stay safe (particularly if you end up venturing outside in the snow.)