whats meant for you, will not pass you by

We've all heard the saying. One door closes so another one can open. Why can't we have multiple doors open at once?

I find myself questioning that statement too much lately.  I work hard, I'm devoted to the core.  After years of working basics jobs, and going back to school to become a massage therapist.  I was truly not satisfied with my professional career, until I started my current job.  I felt like I belonged, this was home. I believed in the products we sold and the people who bought them. I was truly passionate. My staff aren't just staff, they are my extended family. I laugh and joke around with everyone. We have such a level of respect for each other you don't find everyday.  We have a job to do, and we all do our part. 

When I got the news, the company was closing all stores across Canada, I was shocked, flabbergasted...how was I going to break the news to every staff member? I sat in my office, unable to comprehend what I was about to do.   I took out my phone and started typing out each  number. Tears streaming down my face, I was at a loss. 30 families affected by just this one store. My heart was aching for everyone. I never thought I would have to start over in a new career in my 40's. I wanted to climb the ladder more, I wasn't done. Life put a halt to that.  

I sent the message, and complete shock washed over the company. A sadness I cannot explain. The tears would not stop flowing. I looked around and I just saw years of hard work and dedication come crashing to the ground.  I poured my all into a company I treated like my own. 

Two weeks have passed since we got the news.  We still are plowing through, and not one walkout.  I have received so many kind compliments.  I was the best boss they have ever had. That is what keeps me going.  I am their light in such a dark stormy period. 

I had to pull myself together, they need and deserve their strong leader back.  Laughter returned, jokes started flying again morale was on the climb. 

We have strength in numbers.  Saying goodbye to something you aren't ready to say bye to, is possibly the hardest lesson in life.  Im not just talking about businesses closing, I'm talking about people too. It's just a different kind of pain. knowing in just 8 more weeks, I'll be saying bye to each and everyone,  and we will move on with our lives.  

I want to look back and say, I made a difference in each persons life, even if only for a moment.

That brings me here, putting my words and feeling on a screen for all the world to see. Something I only ever dreamed of doing. 

Would I have started this chapter if we weren't losing our jobs?  The answer is no, I wouldn't have. I barely had time to see my children let alone spend hours in front of a computer composing a website.  

To answer my question from the beginning. Yes something must come to a close, in order to welcome something new. 

My time is up as a Corporate Store Manager but as I prepare to leave I am grateful for all the experience I have gained. I have grown so much in these past 4 years, I am looking forward to what and who is coming next. 

I am ready to tackle the new adventures that await.

Onward and upward always

Carrie