Ode to those laid off
You’re cruising along complaining about the commute to the job, hearing the rumblings of others, trying not to be an employed snob.
You give the proper attention and measured respect, when job losses are discussed, you feel the tension begin in your neck.
Immersed in projects, feeling secure in your place, you think to yourself, “I can’t be replaced!”
Then, fate, destiny or opportunity catches you unaware, and you are called forth to be given your share.
For some the reaction is shock, anger, anxiety, disbelief. For others it is hope, anticipation and the sense of release.
The range of reactions and emotions are varied and diverse, before you realize it there are new lines to rehearse.
The goodbyes ensue and often the company wants a quick and clean break. Calls are made, posts are generated, new plans to make. The package is discussed, budgets are planned, priorities are shifted, and the great wheel of fire turned by new hands.
Networking, applying, emailing, interviewing, posting, blogging, tweeting…boredom, waiting, anticipating, useless meetings.
Assistance is offered, recommendations new, promises are made, very few true. One minute you’re close, the next hopes are dashed, change after change, time spins slow than ever so fast.
Weeks move forward and you discover the true power of the Web . Pass on links to face the challenges ahead . New skills are acquired, new resilience is built, fear is a constant friend as well as guilt.
Introspection, more time with those you love…long forgotten passions and new ones fit like a glove. Thinking in abundance, remembering the one chief aim…reinventing yourself, you’re still in the game.
May 29th, 2009 at 1:50 am
Well said…when one door closes another one opens…sometimes ajar, others wide open…don’t hesitate to long or it may slam shut. Hopefully you have big toes!