I recently got together with several of my former co-workers - an opportunity to reconnect with folks, some of whom I had worked with for almost a decade.
It was so nice to see everyone and chat (if briefly) about one another's lives.
Some of my former colleagues have found jobs in the eight months since we were laid off: Challenging and fulfilling gigs that make them view the loss of their former job as a blessing in disguise.
Others were headed back to school to update skills and embark on new career paths.
Still others are making their way, similar to me, with freelance work while trying to figure out what new direction our lives are headed in.
Seeing some of my newly-employed friends so happy gives me hope that if I hang in there long enough, I too, will eventually find a job that is fulfilling, challenging and financially rewarding. Fingers crossed.
Despite my situation, I’m surprised to say I’ve been feeling optimistic these past eight months.
Perhaps it’s because I’ve been able to walk the dog every day (beneficial to both me and my energetic pooch).
Or maybe it’s because I’ve enjoyed all of the best area outdoor swimming pools at one point or another this summer.
Yet, it could also be that I actually had the energy to stay out late at my 20th class reunion, held in July.
I have had so many really great experiences since being “let go” last December.
Sure there have been moments of doubt, frustration and fear. Although, I’d note that I had those when I had a job.
There have also been many, many moments of joy.
From spending quality time with family and friends to helping to organize a successful benefit for one of my favorite causes to just being able to experience a beautiful summer day of sunshine and blue skies ... my life has been enriched.
So my charge to you, reader, whether gainfully employed or not: Take a moment to enjoy your life. As far as we know we only get one go-round on this miraculous marble in the universe. Make sure it’s meaningful.
Spend time really appreciating your family and friends. Organize a Game or Movie/TV Night, and have everybody bring a dish or drink to share.
Love yourself. Relax in a bubble bath, savor a little solitude, take time to rejuvenate your body, mind and spirit.
Get engaged in your community. Attend local events or volunteer to help an organization of interest. Both activities are guaranteed to enrich your life experience, and you might even learn something new.
Check out a fun event that you’ve always wanted to go to, but never had the time or energy to attend.
Here are a few suggestions:
- Shake your groove thing at a
70s Dance Party featuring
Sister Sledge and
The Ohio Players at 8 p.m. today (Sept. 18) at
Tioga Downs in Nichols.
- Celebrate the beautiful environment surrounding Elmirans every day at the free
River Music Fest, taking place
from 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19 on the banks along the
Chemung River on Elmira’s Southside. Hear great folk and blues music from area musicians while enjoying the scenery. Feel free to bring kids, a picnic, something to sit on, and bug spray. This is a great, inexpensive event the whole family can enjoy.
- Find out if you’re watching the “best” shows on television when
The 61st annual Primetime Emmy Awards are broadcast
at 8 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20 on
CBS. My fingers are crossed that my faves - “True Blood,” “Dexter” and “Mad Men” - receive some recognition.
- Another great way to celebrate community is to head to the
Octagon Fair, taking place
Saturday, Sept. 26 on the
Elmira College campus. There will be plenty of local entertainment, book sales and much more to enthrall fairgoers throughout the day. Proceeds benefit the college’s student clubs programs.
- Your passion for pets will be satisfied at the
Pet Expo, which takes place
Saturday, Sept. 26 and Sunday, Sept. 27 at First Arena on Main Street in downtown Elmira. Learn discipline techniques, get care-giving tips for your treasured pet, and much more, at what has become a popular annual event for animal lovers. While there isn't much information about this event at the First Arena Web site, you can call (607) 734-7825 to learn more.
- Experience the awe of watching the majestic world renowned
Lipizzaner Stallions when they return to the
First Arena in Elmira for a performance
at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 29. These amazing creatures will prance and pose their way into your heart with jaw-dropping tricks and stunts.
