One Year Anniversary

Thursday will be the one year anniversary of my layoff (the date of 11/15), but it occurred the week before Thanksgiving. I remember that day vividly. I remember exchanging pleasantries with a manager who had never managed me (but had wished that she had). I remember talking with friends and telling them that I had this meeting to which Sue (enjoy hell Sue) had invited me. I remember thinking, "I have a 9 am meeting... I wonder what it is about..." I remember walking in the room and seeing people with whom I never had meetings. I remember the "solemn" looks of the SS Guard. I remember them reading a declaration from the Führer about how we had to walk into the career gas chambers. I remember walking to my desk and seeing all of my friends. Their faces full of such unbearable sadness. I remember leaving the building and getting in my car (oh, don't forget that Sue had to collect my ID). I remember driving to the park accross the street and sitting in my car for what seems like hours. I remember gathering the courage to call my wife. I remember speaking to her as she cried. I remember feeling like I had no idea how I would survive this ordeal. I just wanted to see my wife and kids.

But, This year has taught me that I am and my wife is and my children are much stronger than we ever envisioned. We survived this year. Sure, it sucked... But, we survived it together. I am also thankful for the friens I left behind . Thank God for their support.

P.S. What makes this day even sadder is that four of my friends from my current company were let go today. I truly wish them the best of luck. I totally know how it feels.