A YEAR IN THE LIFE (525,600 MINUTES)

A YEAR IN THE LIFE

As I sit here tonight preparing for a night of rest, I reflect, as I have been doing to myself all week on the major event that happened in my life on February 25, 2010. That was the day I was called in to the human resources director’s office and was informed that I was being terminated. Quite a slap in the face, actually, considering only three days earlier I had been informed that I was approved for a company buy-out as part of a reduction of force. Poor Job Performance was the reason behind their decision to let me go. Well, as my hard word and tenacity would win out, I ended up receiving a reversal on the termination. That was nearly 525,600 minutes. Yet it was that one moment when the words were uttered “we’ve decided to go ahead with termination, effective immediately.”, that changed my course. It was that phrase that wiped out twelve years of my life in an instant. I found out very quickly who my friends were-both personally and professionally.

I don’t think I doubted for one second that I would land on my feet again. Usually most people who leave the company, for whatever reason, end up better in the end. There were a few dark moments, I’m sure there were a few tears shed, but the truth of the matter is that my few months of unemployment allowed me to focus on different things. The truth of the matter is that I feel a tremendous amount of peace that things happened, things and experiences which would not have been a chance to experience. I’m grateful for the experiences I gained in the 12 years there. In the end, l can honestly say that so many lessons have been learned.

Here’s my confession: Perhaps my only regret is that I didn’t get a proper going-away party. I didn’t get the cake and munchies that everyone else has the opportunity to receive. Instead, I got a “you can pick up your personal belongings on Saturday.” Eventually, I received a “sign here” to receive your reception… I’m a stronger person today emotionally, Truly that which doesn’t kill us DOES make us stronger.

JANUARY GRATITUDE

January Gratitude

It is so difficult to believe that the first month of 2011 is already down in the history books. Furthermore, what an eventful month! While my new year's resolutions are fluid and not etched in stone, I've accomplished some of the goals I have set forth for myself.

In this first month of the year, I have begun the running the Couch to 5K program and I have been started doing yoga. I've also set forth musical goals-memorizing music. I am still working on my piece for January, but am proud of the progress I've made.

I'm grateful for the friendships which have been renewed, and those which are growing. I am looking forward to friendships and relationships growing and seeing what they are to become. I believe that a relationship, a companionship, will develop.

I am grateful for the new beginning of 2011, for the rare snow we have experienced this winter and for the renewal of my spirit on many levels. I’m grateful for a new outlook on life.

Here’s my confession: There are a zillion things I’d like to change in my life. The real truth of the matter is that I have everything I need. I have faith, friendship and hope. Life is not a beautiful vase of roses, it’s sometimes just a bunch of briars. Life is good, and I have a hunch that 2011 is going to be full of good stuff. I have no doubt that everything happens. Where I am today is vastly different than a year ago. Every day is a day full of possibilities. And, with one month of the year completely behind us, I am excited to live in the now, but look forward to the beauty of tomorrow.