A Slamming Door
I was going to post something witty or profound (I’m kidding), but thought I’d take a break from the usual lens talk to say what’s really on my mind. After all, Seedplanter’s Porch claims it’s a place to take “time out to breathe and reflect.” Seems only fitting I should do both.
First the breath.
That felt good.
Now the reflective part. I’m loving Squidoo. I’m loving the helpful lensmasters who’ve stepped in to point this dense newbie in the right direction so many times, I’ve lost count.
I’m enjoying the freedom to take an idea, expand on it, add photos or digital art, and toss it out there for public consumption. Then on to the next lens. It feels like I’m finally gaining momentum, which most creative types will agree is a very good place to be. Momentum is good. It carries me along like a leaf bobbing in a stream. I like how it makes me feel…satisfied. Full. Eager to tackle the next project.
Something happened two weeks ago, though, that slowed my momentum.. I felt like all my creative cells had shriveled. I couldn’t even send tweets, if you can believe that.
Like many employees in these hard economic times, my husband learned that he’ll soon be out of work. The company where he has served as operations director is folding. So much for job security; it’s like sifting sand. Here today…gone tomorrow. With unemployment rates at the highest in fifteen years in our area, it doesn’t sound hopeful. But…
Many years ago, we went through another company closure. And regardless of how shocking it feels, we’re firm believers in this: When God closes one door, he opens another. My natural reaction is to ask, “But WHEN?” Experience teaches that sometimes the details are not for us to know…not yet, anyway.
We are braced for a long wait. Yes, it’s scary. Yes, it’s interrupting my sleep. But I refuse to give in to despair.
The news sidetracked me, but you know what? I’m more determined than ever to keep on task and crank those lenses out. I’m working on blogs and articles, and I’ve got my sights set on lens #50. Think I’ll make it? Then it’s on to #100.
If you want to send Attagirls (chocolate is encouraging, too, even in digital form), I’m all ears. If you want to send a prayer up on our behalf, all the better. Bless you.
So that’s my Friday update…the real one. Now, on to the next lens…
*Image via Wikipedia
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Tags: economy, employment, faith, God, hope, job loss, life, prayer, squidoo lens
November 22nd, 2008 at 1:08 am
I lost my job last September - and it is working out better than expected. I appreciate having the time to work on Squidoo lenses instead. We may not have much income, but we keep expenses down to the minimum and are happy that way. I hope that the changes in your life will be as peaceful and welcome.
November 22nd, 2008 at 2:42 am
I became very unwell in the spring and had to give up my job. Financially it was a disaster for us and we also wondered how I would cope. I cannot drive and I cannot go far on my own, so I had this vsion of going stir crazy.
Then I remembered that I have always wanted to write and then I found Squidoo. We are broke but I am happy!
Then I was contacted a few weeks back by someone who saw one of my lenses. I start a dream job writing for and managing a website this week, that I can do from home, so my illness wont get in the way. It is also part time so I can carry on Squidooing.
Yes, I definitely believe in the one door closes/one door opens principle.
I am glad you are going to continue to write on Squidoo and I know that if you stay positive, then positive things will happen to you.
I wish you all the best.
November 22nd, 2008 at 10:48 am
Thanks so much for leaving such encouraging notes, aj & Linda. Often it’s the unnerving times that shape our lives in ways we could never imagine. I needed the reminder.
November 23rd, 2008 at 10:20 pm
I’m in employment “transition” and have been for most of the year. Any company I would apply at has also laid off very experienced workers (or closed all together). Squidoo and the experiences of people like AJ, has given me new hope, so it is worth it to press on, and be open to whatever may come.
Another thing that keeps me going is that anytime I charged jobs in the past (on my own, or because if circumstances I couldn’t control), I’ve always felt better off with my next position.
November 25th, 2008 at 1:16 am
Linda, I’m glad to hear that your job situation has worked out well for you. We have no problem simplifying, so that’s a plus. In fact, I always kid my husband that I’m low maintenance. (I hate shopping!)
November 26th, 2008 at 6:59 am
It was such a breath of fresh air to find and read your post. We are definitely going through times of great change. What doesn’t change and stays strong is our faith and our values. I have been sharing my views on both in my blog and will pass on your site to many of my friends. I believe strongly we need to connect and build community of optimism, values, and light. I also believe in self empowerment and ideas to be pondered by others. I know I was divinely led to your blog.
You are a light in times of change. It is exciting that we have the opportunity to grow into a more compassionate world. Thank you.
November 26th, 2008 at 10:15 am
Karen, thank you for leaving this uplifting comment. I appreciate it so much.