Long Term Service, a Plea and a Pledge

Two weeks ago I chose my Long Term Service Award gift for 15 years with my current employer. Yesterday I burst into tears at the thought of staying there any longer.

After spending weeks reflecting on what I want my life to look and feel like, I finally realized - and maybe even accepted - that my current employer might not be the best fit.

I want a life that allows me to nurture friendships and family ties, cook healthy meals from scratch, exercise, build new connections, write, paint, contribute, collaborate, and spend quality time with D and Cassie. I want work that supports or contributes to the spirit of simplicity, connection & community, creativity, beauty, authenticity, nature, family, fun and learning.

I'm not convinced I can satisfy these wants where I am now.

I have many ideas and I'm ready to work on a transition; I just don't know where to start. So today I put a plea out to the Universe for help - help in allowing this path to unfold, help in finding the clarity and confidence to take appropriate action, and help in dealing with fear, rationalization and self-doubt.

In return, one day at a time, I will practice:

• outreach and reflection, connecting with others and my Higher Power for guidance,
• action and perseverance, taking risks and following through, and
• patience and trust, pacing myself and letting go of the outcome.

As for my 15-year contribution to my current employer, I will celebrate it and appreciate what it contributed to my life. I will appreciate what it continues to contribute today.

And maybe, just maybe, five years from now I'll be buying my own milestone award - something appropriate for a successful, self-employed woman who took action to create the life she wanted. Wouldn't that be sweet?