Monday, October 5, 2009

Now what?

After seven years of gainful employment here, I was notified today that I am being layed off. Hmm...my first thought was "what??" and my second thought was "what now?" What does this mean to me and what will it mean for our family? Anytime you put your energy into work, hobbies, church assignments, parenting, or whatever, it's not just what you do but becomes part of who you are. Now who am I? True, we shouldn't define our lives by our work, but as long as working was necessary, I took pride in what I did, made the best of it, contributed value to the company, and yes even enjoyed it.

These days it's so commonplace to hear of layoffs. But believe me, when it's YOU, it's anything but commonplace. Today I allowed myself to just wallow. Tomorrow I'll get up and decide what to do next. I'll learn something from this, as is the case with trials, but for now I'm in a bit of a tailspin, looking for a soft place to land. Thankfully, I can find that very thing at home...a husband's shoulder to cry on, a special boy's infectious laugh and a sweet baby's warm cuddle. Even with the uncertainty in the road ahead, I'll sleep well tonight.

8 comments:

Rachel said...

Wow. I'm really sorry Jen! I know whatever comes next in your life, though, you will do with purpose and grace. Let us know if we can help in any way.

Jessica Jane said...

How hard. I'm so sorry. I know you'll figure it out and somehow things will be fine and good. I'll be thinking of you.

Cortney said...

Oh, Jen. I'm so sorry! Well, at least I think I'm sorry...maybe I should be happy for you...maybe this is just the start to something more wonderful and more YOU than you could have ever found had you not lost this job. :)

Tara said...

Oh no! I'm so sad to hear that! I'm amazed at your good attitude, though and I hope you find something even better!

Kristen said...

What?! Where is their loyalty? Weren't we just talking about this? I'm so sorry. If you're looking for purpose to your days, I'm sure Ty would love to spend some time with Seth. : )

Jas and Kim said...

Jen,
That really sucks! I know you were thinking that might be what they were doing when you were here last month. I'm just sorry to hear that it did finally happen. You are so talented in so many different ways that I'm not worried about you or what you're going to do. You have a great attitude about this and I know you and your fighting spirit will pull through. Just rememeber what me and Staci said about your cute outfits, you should really look into something that could showcase your work. You are amazing at the sewing machine! You are in my prayers and I love you! Let me know if I can do anything for you. LOVE YA!

Kight Family said...

Sorry to hear you got laid off. You are so talented I know will find another job that you will take pride in.

But for now, keep your head up and know that your family loves you!!!!!!

Laura said...

I'm sorry Jen! We're really surprised too. I am (always) impressed with your positive attitude in the face of difficult things. Good luck.