Thank God I'm Unemployed

Well, I’m not really that thrilled with the fact that my company ceased operations this past April, and yes I do wish I was back in the workplace contributing to a company’s bottom line while drawing a paycheck, but I thought I would look at the silver lining inside of the dark cloud.


Being unemployed can force you to discover who you are. I’ve assessed my skills and strengths and have looked at my weaknesses. I have learned about new industries and I’ve learned about what other people really do at their jobs and careers.


I have met so many new people and am developing new friendships. I would not be out attending networking events and attending job group meetings if I was still employed. My circle of contacts would still be limited to that safe area we all fall into.


I would not have discovered how deeply concerned others are about my situation. My support group at church has been phenomenal about praying for me and asking if they can help me in any way. They lift my spirits every week and are there to talk to when I am really down about not finding a new career opportunity.


I would not have attended a four week session on how to become more employable. The information and insights I gained will stick with me long after I am employed again. I would not have met Don McLeod who so freely gives of his time and talents to help others.


My last position had become a dead end job. I loved my job but the company was reducing it’s workforce before it ceased operations and unless it had dramatic growth I would have continued not utilizing many of the skills I possess. I am thankful I have the opportunity to find a position where I can again utilize those talents and succeed in ways I could not imagine.


I am thankful for Facebook. Yes, some people overdo it, but I have been able to connect with my former co-workers. Many of us regularly communicate with each other where before we only saw each other at annual meetings.


I am thankful that I have a source of income while I pursue a new career. I have spoken with many people whose situations are far worse than mine will ever be. They have no health insurance, have depleted their savings and IRAs and some face the prospect of losing their homes. They are becoming desperate and will take about any job they can find.


Finally, I am thankful for all the little things we tend to overlook when we are rushing to get to work or to a meeting. My wife, my family, my dog (even though he sleeps all day), having a working car, food on the table and a roof over my head, good health and friends who really care.


Happy Thanksgiving to All.