I've been dead silent.
For two reasons.
First, my favorite, lovely, awesome Mac decided to up and die two weeks ago. Good thing there are geeks in this world. Good thing they know how to save a Mac's life. So, finally, I'm back in business.
Secondly, I was in the midst of what felt like a pivotal life decision. As Mel and Ann have shared, many of us are subject to the whims of the economy lately. A job opportunity arose that offered tremendous benefits and pay but would redirect my career path back into the education realm. For a good while, I entertained that job. I even agreed verbally to the teaching job. I agreed strictly from a financial standpoint. My hospital job pays pittance; it's geared towards pre-meds and career switchers who need hospital experience for med school/public health programs. Since the experience is incomparable to many options, many of us work resident hours at measly pay just cuz it's that good. But you can just barely survive on the income.
I went back and forth like a pendulum. I emailed with our blog's educators (mucho thanks, dear ones). I prayed. I ran whenever I even thought about signing the contract. I talked myself into it every single solitary day. Until I couldn't avoid the voice that kept saying, "This isn't who you are anymore." And, then, it was over. The indecision, the fear, the pendulum swinging. Because I remembered that I only get one shot at this life, and I want that shot to be full of things of love and people I love. Money doesn't buy happiness. It never has.
So, I may be poor for a few more months, but I am rich.
I look forward to talking with you more,
Leen
Posts
Leen,
ReplyDeleteI hope I don't sound condescending. I am so proud of you. Far too often we choose a path because we feel we HAVE to. It is after all the path of least resistance. But one thing I have learned is when you do that you short change yourself. You are right in that you only get one chance in this life. I am glad you chose your happiness.
I will be totally honest. My husband took the job down here in Ft. Lauderdale because of the money, and he could provide better for his family. But since we have been here we have been miserable. The people are rude, everything is way overpriced, and of course the heat and humidity. My daughter has been sick with a respitory infection since we got here, and the heat is affecting my hypertension in a bad way. I have been sending out resumes for myself and my husband back in GA. He has heard back from a couple of people. We have an extra long weekend Th-Tu coming up, and we are trying to get interviews set up. I think I must have known something deep down because we left all of our stuff in a storage unit back in GA. I hope, pray, light candles, etc. that one of these options come through. It will be less money, but as you so eloquently stated, money doesn't buy happiness.
Leen, I know you made the right decision. Keep the faith. Have a good night.
HCM
Melanie
Leen, we are all very pleased that you have your Mac in working order, for our own selfish reasons. You always spice up our lives and stretch us. Many blessings to you on behalf of your decision. May it enrich you in ways you hadn't anticipated.
ReplyDeleteMelanie, I'm very sorry the move didn't work out for you and your family. I'm deeply impressed how quickly and resolutely you and your husband decided to turn the situation around. I believe that how we respond to the mistakes we make is much more important than how often we make them. Many blessings to you too, for a return to wherever you feel most at home.
I hope that we can all show the level of courage that each of you has shown.
Jim
Jim,
ReplyDeleteThank you for your kind words. It is tough to figure out anymore what is the right decision. In this economy one tends to believe the old bird in the hand saying, but at what cost? I know that if anything this year has taught me is perseverance. My ten year old daughter came up with the best saying "home isn't where you lay your head, it's where you lay your heart." The things that come out of her mouth just amaze me. I only wish I was that smart. Thanks again Jim for making me feel better about the decision we are making. I hope you and your wonderful wife have a great Monday.
HCM
Melanie
Good for you Leeny-Loo! Happiness is the answer sister. The more you make, the more you spend anyway, so you might just as well stick with fulfillment and happiness!!
ReplyDeleteHCM, it sure has been a rough few months for you guys but your spirit and determination will lead you back. I am sending tons of positive energy due south in your direction. Hang in there!!
Love you all for your support. Bestest people ever. Bestest.
ReplyDelete