Thursday, January 15, 2009

Adventures in Unemployment

I am out looking for work, again. Some say it's the bad economy, this time I'm blaming it on bad luck, well and the bad economy.

To be honest, I can't say that I am unhappy being out of work this time. Maybe I am a happier and healthier me or perhaps after a year, I was just ready for a change. The problem with it all is that I'm not sure what I really want to be doing and where to end up. I guess I am not looking for another layover job that I do because I have to but because it is something that I love. Is that desire even realistic? And, how do you find that? Have you experienced this?

I read a talk recently by Elder Wirthlin called "Come What May and Love It." These words have become a sort of motto during this time and I am looking for ways to love it.

What I'm loving about unemployment, at least right now:

Learning how to navigate unemployment benefits: I was on the phone for two hours yesterday for them only to tell me everything was fine, I swear the computer did not say it was fine. I'm learning to love this one.

Having time to work on my projects: I've pulled out all the projects that need finishing, the quilt, my wedding book (yes, I've been married for three years)

Spending time with friends and family: They have been so supportive and helpful.

What are you loving about your hard times, and I know you are all having them. How did you find your path?

6 comments:

me and him said...

oh, i love you gentri! i'm so sorry you're having a hard time lately. i love that talk though. it gives so much of that needed hope that you taught us about last month. i guess i just landed in my job when a lil' man arrived 16 months ago. sadly, i still wonder everyday what i will be when i grow up. james has to stop me and tell me "i am grown up"! i too was reading a talk the other day about trials (last conference seemed to be filled with stories of hope through trials!) and i realized that every time life falls on me in a moments notice and i slowly, slowly, recover...i then look back months later to realize that my Heavenly Father really had a hand in all of it. and although, my life seemed sad and lonely He really was there with me. i think it's great that your getting so many projects done. you must have such great motivation. if perhaps you need some ice cream (tonight?) or a fun girls night out with dinner and a movie (tomorrow?) please let me know! i'd love to hang out and get our minds off of life!

Lacey Sue said...

I am so sorry this icky economic time has sucked you into it! I am so sorry that you feel that stress. But I agree with you, learn to love it, and it will become easy and simple. You are so blessed with such a wonderful family...to see that picture of you with your mom and Loni, almost made me cry. You are surrounded by such STRONG women! I love you all!

amb said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
amb said...

I'm right there with you on the job hunt! But like you said, come what may and love it! I too have taken up quilting and I have actually found it to be quite rewarding! Good luck on the job hunt.

Hulberts said...

Oh Gentri you are the best. You look at the good and you read things that inspire you. I sometimes just sit and wait for the time to pass by.

When I have been down in the past, I really dig deep and wonder why I am acting so down or mad or frustrated and really try to fix my attitude. I have found that when I improve my core attitude and really look at what I have, which it sounds like you are already doing, I feel like I can get through anything because I start taking little steps.

You have been blessed with so many talents that I know you will be able to find something that really helps you use and expand those talents. If you could bottle up your sweet spirit and sell that, you would be set for life because everyone would want to be as peaceful as you. Good luck! Call me if you need anything.

me and him said...

ok....no more talk, more action!! we are having a girls night. this weekend. does that work for you. i don't have your email, or your phone number at the moment so i have resorted to blogs!! i hope you check yours often!!! my house tomorrow (unless it doens't work for you) pizza and a movie!! let me know, and i'll keep looking for your number!