Tuesday 9 October 2012

Attacking Our Positive Environment.

After a most sad and traumatic divorce, I lost virtually all of my life savings.  This meant that I ended up in social housing.  Eleven years ago I moved into this home and was placed here based on a point system that assured I'd be in a peaceful, positive environment.  Nothing could be further from the truth.  It took three years and two court cases to have the people living below me evicted.  They made my son's life, our dog's life and my life, a living hell.

For the next seven plus years, we  lived in peace and harmony with our neighbours.  All getting along without being intrusive.  Out of squalor, I created a beautiful garden.  An oasis of tranquillity and in balance with nature.  I was proud of all I had done and proud how I had battled against negative neighbours to make this a safe haven for all three of us.

The neighbours who moved in after we finally got those nasty people evicted, were cooperative and respectful of us as we were of them.  Eight months ago they moved on and my negative speculation went into overdrive.  What will the new neighbours living below me be like?  Will they be peaceful and respecting of others?   My worst thoughts came to fruition.

For eight horrendous months we have been subjected to loud music, slamming doors, unattended dogs barking and their dogs fouling by my part of the property.  Even the slightest hint of noise from us is greeted by a torrent of foul mouthed abuse from the 'adult' living below us.  For instance, Penny who has been of great worry during some confusing times recently, accidentally dropped a bone she was chewing, off a chair and onto the floor.  The guy below screamed up and I quote in edited version, "I'm gonna' come up there and kick your f**king heads in!"

Yes, I tried to have some civil conversations with my anti-social neighbours.  Anything I said was dismissed and I was told in no uncertain terms, that they could do whatever they liked.

I have made an initial complaint to my housing authority in regards to what has been going on.  I have asked my housing authority to make note of this pending further meetings.  In fact, I have indicated that I want to move out and into my own separate place.  I know I have a huge amount of evidence to get the people below evicted but I would then worry about who moved in next.  And yes, if I took such action, I would worry about reprisals.

I'm writing this with head phones on.  I can barely concentrate and this has been having a huge impact on my physical and mental well being.   We all have the right to live in peace in a positive environment.  Our environment has been attacked by positive energy saboteurs and I cannot take any more.  After that first situation with my original neighbours, I can fight no more.  Somehow, I embrace this as having a positive lining.  Time to move on and make a fresh start in a home where I can actually do some writing without the panic attacks I'm experiencing.

So, what I love, my passion to be involved within the great blogging community has been thrown into chaos because of rowdy neighbours who have made life unbearable.



46 comments:

  1. At the end of the day though, you shouldn't have to put up with that! Penny dropped a bone and they yelled? That's not right.
    Respect is something that has sadly gone out the window in recent times. Everyone is so focused on 'me.'

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  2. Hi Alex,
    Oh, how I know. I have battled before and I grow weary. I need to move on. A sad situation when the scum of this world seem to be a law unto themselves.
    Thank goodness, there are folks like you who are not selfish. Take care, friend.

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  3. I am probably too tipsy and sad to comment on anyone's blog right now, but for those same reasons I will still do so :)

    Your choosing to see the positive nudge in a bad situation puts me to shame, my friend. I feel for you, as I have been in a similar pickle. Bad neighbors can make an already difficult situation unbearable, and I definitely know what that "I can fight no more" feeling feels like. I admire your inspiration to embark upon a fresh start and will keep sending good juju your way.

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  4. Hi Chris,
    Tipsy or not, always a delight when you visit.
    Sadly, I thought there would be others who have experienced such outrageous behaviour by anti-social neighbours who seem to get a thrill out of playing psychological mind games. Yes, you can reach a point that you cannot wait for bureaucracy to sort out the mess. A fresh start and peaceful reflections on what I did achieve here. Nobody can ever take that away.
    You stay real, my friend :)
    In kindness, Gary

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  5. Hi Gary,

    It's Hawk's Human here. I stopped to thank you for your visit.

    Wow! I remember days of living in apartments and stressing out and feeling claustrophobic knowing people were so close.

    We used to travel extensively because of my husbands job and that lead to lots of living in motels before the "long term stay" places they have now. There you never knew what your neighbors would be like night to night.

    Sometimes the motel or hotel in the location where we needed to be was not so nice. :( Once our car broke down and we went to the closest place to the garage. Our little Basenji turned her nose up and didn't want to stay there. The same thing happened with her once when we got escorted by a snowplow off an Interstate in a blizzard to some old "cabins"...she slept on the floor by the door for the 2 days until the roads were clear enough to travel. (Hope that last made you smile.) Fortunately, these were temporary and not places we had to stay for years.

    Good neighbors are something for which, like you, we are very thankful. We will add you to our prayers that the situation is quickly rectified. Hopefully you'll be able to relocate and soon.

    Sorry to be so wordy,
    Hawks Human

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    1. Hi Hawk's Human,
      You know we always enjoy visiting Hawk's site and your input.
      Your recollection of motels reminded me of some rather stressful times staying in what turned out to be rather dubious locations. And I can relate to how your little Basenji was. Since these new horrible people have moved in, poor Penny has become very nervy and anxious.
      I spent three years creating a peaceful neighbourhood around us. A warm, safe, friendly environment. These awful people have ruined it just like that. Thank you so much for your prayers. I visualise a positive future in a new place.
      In kindness and gratitude, Gary

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  6. Oh Gary, I am so sorry that you have to live through this bedlam. I know what apartment living can be like and it can be very unpleasant at times. I will send positive vibrations for harmonious living accomodations for you and Tristan and Penny.

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    1. Hi Delores,
      Yes, apartment living can be most stressful. Yet, for over seven years, all was just fine. We had mutual respect happening. Now and worryingly, we have the neighbours from hell who have destroyed all our positive work.
      I am thankful for your positive vibrations, Delores. The sooner I get outta' here, the better.
      In kindness and gratitude, Gary

      Delete
  7. Those neighbors sound just like my ex-husband! He used to stomp around, cussing and swearing about the slightest noise from neighbors, pound the ceiling with a broomstick while swearing at the neighbors above...it was dreadful. Once while visiting us, his sister laughed and made fun of him when he hollered at the door because our neighbor was walking up the stairs - "Got a f*ing problem with your feet, a*hole?!" she chided him on that for years.

    If it's any consolation at all, the negative behavior spewed at you by them is a glaring sign of their own unhappiness with themselves. It really has nothing to do with you at all. I hope you are able to move very soon and find yourself the peaceful, positive abode you deserve!

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    1. Hi Kim,
      Ah yes, I recall you mentioning your ex was that way inclined. And the irony is that his noise, his childish tantrums, only compounded the situation. What an embarrassment you had to endure.
      You are probably correct about them being unhappy with themselves. I just wish I could discuss with them what they are doing to us. Of course, they are unapproachable and are now deliberately banging around just to upset us even more.
      My previous neighbours understood mutual respect and consideration. The scum below me would find that an alien concept. May we both be moving on soon to that brighter, positive future we deserve. Thank you, Kim.
      In kindness and gratitude, Gary

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  8. Hi Gary;
    Next time you visit the housing people, take a recording of what these jerks are doing. That way they can have a taste of your misery. Hmmm, I always said you should take up a hobby at home to keep yourself busy and I think I have just thought of the perfect one! How about tap dancing! Yes, I can see it now, I'll lend you my shoes and show some of the easier steps, the time step, the shuffle to buffalo and the double time step. That should make you really popular with your wonderful neighbours. Frankly, I'm glad you're moving. It definitely is time. Take care and we'll chat soon. Big hugs.

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    1. Hi Heather,
      First of all, thank you for that phone call. You are a treasure and thanks for letting me rant about this situation. As you will know, my available recording system doesn't pick up the noise or the abuse we are hearing. I've just had enough. Went through this before and I just want out.
      I know you understand that I must get out and how they are somewhat of an ironic catalyst to get me going. And tap, tap, tap, take some of that crap, my um 'wonderful' neighbours.
      Big hugs and thanks, Heather.
      In kindness and gratitude, Gary

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  9. PS I really can tap dance! LOL

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    1. Hi Heather,
      Your tap dancing prowess is world renown. Of course, I'm real good at skateboarding! :)

      Delete
  10. So sorry, Gary! Hope things start looking better for you soon. I know a bit of what it's like to be distracted in this way and it's never fun. Wishing you the best.

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    1. Hi Karen,
      Thank you for your supportive message. And I'm sure you will know that such negative distractions can overwhelm to the point of becoming ill. I shall maintain a positive focus for a better future for all of us. Thank you, Karen.
      In kindness and gratitude, Gary

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  11. I'm sorry you have to endure that, Gary. I hope things improve for you soon. Horrible neighbors, just like horrible roommates, can make life miserable.

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    1. Hi Michael,
      Thank you, kind sir, for your supportive words. Oh yes, I remember those days with certain roommates that made life most unpleasant. Thank you, Michael.
      In kindness and gratitude, Gary

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  12. I hope you have something to take for those panic attacks. I think a change of living arangements may be just the thing you need. I will never understand why others are so mean and angry all the time, thinking only of themselves. That is where alot of my depression comes from. And now the anxiety B.S. is creeping up on me again.
    You of all people deserve a safe and peaceful place to live. I will pray for this. Peace.

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    1. Hi middle child,
      I am, rather reluctantly, back on medication for stress and anxiety. Although, even those pills are not working in this unbearable situation. I shall be seeing my doctor again about this.
      Depression can be caused by our environment. And if we feel undermined, our humanity devalued, it can have a devastating impact on our mental health well being. You know I continue to wish your trying times make a turn for the positive better.
      I thank you for your prayers. Peaceful wishes to you, my friend.
      In kindness and gratitude, Gary

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  13. Replies
    1. Hi Caren,
      I have been tempted. Trouble is these seem the type to retaliate and make the situation even more intolerable after the police have been.
      I'm working with my housing association to get the heck out. I cannot take on anti-social neighbours all over again.
      Thank, Caren.
      In kindness and gratitude, Gary

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  14. Gee Gary, I am so sorry you are having to deal with "Bothersome" neighbors. (I am trying to be nice and not use the words I would really like to say about them) I too was worried about Penny if you crossed them too much, so if you can find a place that is more private and that fits your expenses, then go for it. I am lucky and have no neighbors at all. It is wonderful.
    Bert's My Vickie

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    1. Hi Vickie,
      Thanks for your supportive comment. I was very tempted to use expletives in the posting.
      If I went ahead and got them evicted, I would be stressed about them retaliating. I just need peace and it aint happening here, any more. Think I shall move to a secluded island.
      Thanks, Vickie.
      In kindness and gratitude, Gary

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  15. Sorry you are having to put up with an awful neighbor, Gary. I hope your efforts earn you the peace you need and deserve.

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    1. Hi Ian,
      Thank you, my friend. I put so much effort into making this a warm, friendly and positive neighbourhood. All my efforts have been wiped out just like that. So, yes indeed, time to move on and get back the peace we crave. Thanks, Ian.
      In kindness and gratitude, Gary

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  16. Oh the joys of public housing. Our little Shire has turned inside out since coming back from the flood. Things are going missing from everywhere. People are outside at all hours yelling, talking on cells, sitting in cars with their stereos booming. When we are made to leave in 3 years I'll be more than happy to go. By then it should be a real nightmare.

    But I'm sorry you're going through this, Gary. People have no self-respect anymore and once that's gone, it's sheer piggery. I wish a quiet warm new home with an even nicer garden for you all and the wee folk.
    Take good care,
    Laura
    x

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    Replies
    1. Hi Laura,
      Oh yes, the wonder that is social or perhaps 'unsocial' housing. And now your environment has been severely threatened by those who have no concept of being respectful to others. I'm so sorry to read about your nightmare. That three year wait being over, can't come soon enough.
      What really aggravates me is that all my hard work in this recently pleasant neighbourhood has been destroyed by inconsiderate low life. The 'wee folks' are anticipating a move into a new, magical garden. Thank you, Laura.
      In kindness and gratitude, Gary
      x

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  17. Gary, my friend, that is simply not right! As you say, everyone has a right to live in peaceful, safe surroundings, but unfortunately the world is full of selfish, arrogant people who think that they are the only people that matter in the world. Your neighbour is one of them! I hope that you are able to move and you are able to continue on your positive journey which you have had to fight so hard to take.
    J
    Follow me at HEDGELAND TALES

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    1. Hi John,
      John, kind sir, it is an outrage. It is a sad commentary on the state of our world when selfish, arrogant people seem to get away with causing havoc and misery to all who get in their way.
      I so look forward to moving away. I just pity the people who move in here. Then again, they might be just like those living below. Now, that would be most interesting.
      Thank you, John.
      In kindness and gratitude, Gary

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  18. I am so sorry that you are having trouble like this. I know from experience how nasty neighbours can wreck things. It is so unfair that your life has been made unbearable after you've worked so hard to make your home into a safe haven. I hope things are resolved in the most positive way and that the proper order of things is restored and you find peace again x

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    1. Hi Teresa,
      Thank you, dear lady. Nasty neighbours are a plague on society. I am most saddened to think I will give up all my hard work. I am sad that I cannot fight anti-social neighbours, yet again. The first time took its toll on us.
      I am concentrating on that peaceful future, sadly away from here.
      Thanks, Teresa.
      In kindness and gratitude, Gary x

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  19. I am so so sorry. I cannot understand how people can live as it seems your neighbours do, and can totally understand how fragile your hard won peace has become. Awful. I am sending so many good wishes to you, to Penny and to Tristan right now.

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    1. Hi The Elephant's Child,
      Thank you for your good wishes. I tried to tell those horrible neighbours what they are doing to us. They don't care. I even tried to tell them that Penny is becoming petrified. They ignored what I said and started talking about themselves.
      We are all very appreciate of your good wishes.
      In kindness and gratitude, Gary

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  20. Hi Gary - gosh .. that sounds terrible and I can't imagine what 'hell' you're going through. Unfortunately life is never easy (at all) with those sorts of neighbours ... and is totally sapping. They are selfish and arrogant, disrespectful, and obviously exceedingly thoughtless ... as you say it appears moving on is the only option ... my thoughts are totally with you.

    I'll be with you in thought ... the world has gone crazy sometimes - particularly that we support peoples like your neighbour .... really, I do hope social services sort something out for all three of you ... I am and will continue to send positive vibes ...

    Big hugs - this must be so painful for you ... I do hope it's resolved quickly ... very quickly ... with many many positive vibes at all times winging their way up to you - Hilary

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    1. Hi Hilary,
      These awful people have brought us our worst nightmare. And now I shall give up all I have done around here to get some much needed peace and some much needed sleep.
      I am so very grateful for your positive vibes to all three of us. Those neighbours have impacted my life so much that I've been unable to concentrate and interact as much as I would like with lovely folks such as you.
      Hopefully, I will be moving soon.
      Thanks, Hilary.
      In kindness and gratitude, Gary

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  21. I had neighbors almost like that. It was a living hell for a whole year until I could finally move. People like that it's like they don't realize they have neighbors close by.

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    1. Hi PT,
      I'm sorry to read you have had some similar situations with unruly neighbours.
      In my case, my neighbours know how close by we are and take great delight in disturbing us as much as possible. Unbelievable.
      Thanks, PT.
      In kindness and gratitude, Gary

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  22. Wow, what an A-hole. I see what you mean about frightening neighbours. I've a good mind to come over there and sick my Jack Russell on him. Penny and Parker could gnaw his ankles while I deliver a swift headbutt.

    I hope things change for you soon. X

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    1. Hi CarrieBoo,
      A major A-hole. I haven't got the time for such nasty pieces of work. Penny and Parker, superstar Jack Russell dogs, chomping away at the 'adult' neighbour and you giving him a swift headbutt. Nice thought. Although, a headbutt would probably have little affect on the idiot!
      I thank you for your positive thoughts.
      In kindness and gratitude, Gary x

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  23. That definitely sucks. Neighbours are the downside of social housing. Most of mine are ok, but one talks late at night and they also nicked my recycling bin. They usually most weeks put out 2 bins full of beer cans. I just don't talk to them at all, and have low volume music on until bedtime to drown out their talking. The music also relaxes me so I'm cool with that.

    Anyway sending wishes of peace for you and your son and dog.

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    1. Hi Lost in Space,
      I'm encouraged that most of your neighbours are okay. And recycling bins. Oh I hear you on that one. Which reminds me, as a kind gesture, for the first two months, I took down and brought back their bins. Quite a distance to the street. The one time they got to the bins first, they brought up their bin and left mine on the street.
      I'm glad that a bit of relaxing music is working for you. You have a positive attitude, for sure :) I put on my head phones to try and drown out their noise. It isn't working.
      Thank you for your peaceful wishes to us.
      In kindness and gratitude, Gary

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  24. Gary, I'm so sorry to hear about the awful neighbours. Having dealt with bad neighbours myself once before, I know just what you mean (my neighbour was a creepy man who would stare at me and then scream abuse at me regarding my clothes). I'll be hoping that you get to move out and into a place without neighbours. That peace of knowing that no one is going to bother you is precious.

    Jai

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    1. Hi Jai,
      That's horrible what you endured, my friend. We both cherish our right to living in peace and without the stress caused by ignorant idiots.
      And the idea of moving to a remote island is beginning to make more sense. Thank you, Jai.
      In kindness and gratitude, Gary

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  25. I'm so sorry about your awful neighbors. You have to wonder what makes people think it's alright to behave that way. I've had some pretty awful neighbors before, so I feel your pain. I hope the situation improves soon. Good luck!

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  26. Hi Danielle,
    It's me, Penny the Jack Russell dog and modest internet star! I'm responding to your comment because my human, Gary, is trying to finally get some rest.
    Those neighbours are very nasty, cruel people. They have made me tremble in fear because of all their very loud noises. I'm sorry you have had has some similar experiences. Thank you for the good luck wishes and a move cannot come soon enough.
    Pawsitive wishes and doggy kisses, Penny xx

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I do try to comment back to each commenter individually. However, I might have to shorten my replies or give a group thank you. That way, I can spend more time commenting on your blogs. Thank you and peace, my friend.