When we discovered Charlie had cancer at the beginning of last year, we knew that it was going to be a rough road and felt uncertain about what the future held for us. It was scary. Additionally, the economy was in trouble. Now a year later, there is no doubt that we are in a recession. Charlie has his own business in construction. So far, with the economy as it is, we are amazed that he has had work throughout all of this and we know how fortunate we are. Under the circumstances, we also know that can change at any time.
I work for a school district and with the budget cuts in effect, we already know where the cuts have been made. There will be more to come next year. Some of my close friends in the department and I had coffee after work last week and we were discussing the change of attitude we are experiencing from our fellow colleagues. It has become a cut-throat world. As soon as one walks away, they are getting stabbed in the back. We are hearing discussion on who should get cut and why. It is sad and I also find it interesting how in such a short time, you see people turning on each other. I don't want to think that everyone is showing their true colors in this name of the game. I truly believe that the fear of losing jobs and how it will affect lives is the result of this kind of behavior.
Okay, enough about that. We have had some road construction around the town that I live in and when I saw this sign, I couldn't help but think about what my husband and I have went through with his illness, as well as what we are all facing with the economy now. Metaphorically speaking, the road has closed for some and now we have to take a detour. We have to make some changes in the plans that we had for ourselves. I know for myself, I don't like change. I have a hard time with it. With the road being closed, what can we do? Either sit there or take the detour. We have to be confident that it will all work out; make that change and see where the road takes you/me.
For the road is closed, but we are given detours and another road is open.
My dear Angela ~~ you should be writing the article for the Church Newsletter!!
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful message. I know how hard this school thing is. Myk's wife Chlenne was just let go and the excuse they used is she was not compatible with the teacher (she's a paid teachers aid). We know that is not true, as Chelenne is excellent in what she does. She is just a few days before her probationary period, and I think they used that to get rid of her.
So my prayers are with all the hurting ones.
I'm so grateful my days in the workplace are a thing of the past.
I'm loving you and C today!!!
Wanda Mom
I know all about the detour Angela.
ReplyDeleteWe have both travelled a road that we might not otherwise have taken. Apart from the fact that the ones we love the most are sick, I think we have grown together and learned things about our relationships that might otherwise have been left unsaid.
This might not be the route we planned or imagined, but since we are already on the journey, lets enjoy it. It could be so much worse.
Love you lots..
xoxox
Yet, we have company on every detour, that can make us if not happy, then content with what our life has become. It is a time of stress. We went through lay-offs for about 17 years before it became a fact. It is hard, but you can do it.
ReplyDeletewhat a wonderful post! I have been going through some blocked roads and detours myself of late it is a challenge, nothing like what you and Charlie went through. and I know what ever detour you take will lead you to a wonderful new road!
ReplyDeletesending you much love and hugs
Tia
As you know, I just ended up on the cut list at the end of the year. We all knew it was coming. And we all had our opinions on who would get cut and why. I knew I'd be on the list so that made it easy for me. But you're right - people get scared and the teeth come out. But I know you're gracious enough to just keep doing your job to the best of your ability and ignore the jibber jabber.
ReplyDeleteLove to you and Charlie.