It feels like forever ago (even though it wasn’t)
When my son and I were living in a situation where we were being tormented by an HVAC system
Today was the perfect example of why I’m thrilled we’re out
Where our room was a comfortable 20°C when we woke up
No AC was on
And it wouldn’t be coming on
AT ALL
Just an open window and fans blowing
The day started out cool (9°C), but the temperature gradually increased to mid teens
As the day progressed, the temperature in our room gradually increased
It ended with our room reaching 24°C on its own
If we were still in Brampton, the AC would have been running continuously
The temperature in our apartment would be dropping well below 20°C
We would have been forced out to find a warmer place to visit for the day
While we had portable heaters, there were times the AC overtook them because the thermostat was set so low
And it was a daily occurrence during the summer
Where we were made so uncomfortable in our own apartment, we needed to leave
And it would have been perfectly legal
Because AC isn’t covered by the Residential Tenancy Act in Ontario
And it’s something others seemed to have a hard time wrapping their heads around
Because to many, it’s ‘just an AC’
And while under normal circumstances, the AC isn’t an issue
But under the control of an abuser, it becomes a weapon
Where compromise and common sense is thrown out the window
So on days like today, where my son and I are now able to enjoy comfortable settings, there will always be the memory of what things USED to be like
And why days like today shouldn’t be taken for granted
Island of Misfit Mamas 