September 13, 2016.
I’m prepping for a demo – the Big Day for my startup. I’m preparing to show the leadership team the site and materials the Engineering team’s built in preparation for launching our beta. It’s 5:30 am.
My phone buzzes with a missed text. It’s my dad.
Just wanted to let you know that your grandmother went to the hospital
and I knew
I’d never see my grandma alive again.
***
September 25, 2016.
First Monday back on the job post-funeral. I’ve received a couple of messages from my boss via Slack while I’ve been in Joliet, so I know there’s an announcement today. I’m not sure what it is, but I’ve got a bad feeling.
My Solo Sense is spot-on. Again.
Our runway is short. We’re restructuring. I’m sorry.
Severance. Agreements. Signatures. Hugs.
Onward.
***
October 31, 2016.
Today, I start a job doing something I’ve never done before: part-time stockroom associate for a large clothing retailer. I’ve never worked retail before. I’m still hunting for full-time work, but I’m starting to wonder if I can find a way to take the plunge and go out on my own. For now, I intend to revive the blog and use it as a place to document this adventure.
We may end up homeless; we may end up in a completely different corner of the States (or of the world – who knows?). I may get a dream job tomorrow. Who knows?
I refuse to knuckle under and let my fear prevent me from thriving. I will learn from this. I will grow from this.
I will. I will. I will.
***