I would dare say I am an optimist. I believe everything happens for a Divine reason and Purpose. You can catch me quoting James Allen, Jesus, and Deepak Chopra on any given day. But, the last week of June was a whopper.
I was laid off. It was the typical “we love you, “hate to do this,” “we are restructuring,” “the economy’s bad,” “we are eliminating your position” classic Corporate America moment. I took it in stride because I view a job like a man. They come and go. Sometimes with or without warning, and I never allow myself to get comfortable. My desk had no pictures, no quotes, plants, or fish. I had no signs of attachment. Coworkers often commented on my lack of personal desk adornments. I always advised, “It’s because I don’t attach myself to my desk. I am here to work not decorate.”
I loved my job and the people I worked with. But, I refused to be the type of needy employee who felt the world would end if I lost it. When other people were laid off they cried, they begged to be rehired. I simply smiled and hugged everyone goodbye and walked out the door knowing I was walking out into something new and beautiful. My optimism was at an all-time high.
I actually behaved similar to my last break up. I became a Lion and kept my shield up. My strength is my weapon. And, the universe will take care of me. I said to myself as my employers explained the reasons for my departure. Words I have often said to myself when other people or events have let me down.
Then the next day, Michael Jackson died. And, a part of me did as well. His music was a theme song to my life from birth until now. I felt like I lost the innocence of my childhood. I was actually scared of the video “Thriller,” which dates my age. I know Michael was odd. He changed a lot of his physical self, but I believe Mike was always a nice guy who just wanted to be loved. And, he was a master at his craft. Something I hope to become.
