I constantly asked my mother if we could leave; but she could not. She was blacklisted by her previous employer because when she resigned due to health issues, they asked her to come back for a bit until they found someone which she declined. They revoked her visa rendering her illegal. She could not even get an exit visa. She could not travel anywhere or register anywhere. They froze her bank accounts. Also, because my siblings and I were under my mother, we became illegal to. She has been in this situation for three years now.
I wanted to wait for her, but I could not. I was young and wanted to have a better life for myself. I decided to leave. I would find a way. I packed a suitcase and hid it for a few days until I could formulate a plan. I had a friend, Yusuf, who said he was going to help me. I waited until I overheard my mother making plans to visit friends. That was the day I would choose as my escape. I called the U.S. Embassy and theoretically explained the situation of my need to leave Saudi Arabia. They told me that without being legal and, more importantly, without my father's permission, they would not be able to help me.
The day arrived and my siblings and mother were getting ready. I told my mom I did not feel well and did not want to go. She kept asking but I insisted on staying at home. It never occurred to me that I would not be able to see my sister, brother or mother for a long while. She sat down next to me, looked at me and held the jade dragon figure on my necklace. She said, "you know that I love you." She kissed me and got up to leave. Until this day, I do not know if she knew I was leaving.
I waited to make sure my family was gone and got my suitcase. I went outside where Yusuf was waiting to drive me to the U.S. Embassy. I was still going to try asking them in person. This prooved to be one of the best decisions I ever made.
Lesson Learned: Do not give up, and if your reasons are well, do everything you can to make it happen.
