MLK Day/Hormone-Induced Sentimental Ramblings

Inspired by MLK Day, I searched for an appropriate quote to use for my Facebook status. I chose "Never, never be afraid to do what's right, especially if the well-being of a person or animal is at stake. Society's punishments are small compared to the wounds we inflict on our soul when we look the other way."

This quote left me with goosebumps. It also made me reflect on my own life, particularly the changes I’ve experienced in the past 19 months. (warning: I’m about to get sentimental and weird for a bit)

A little over a year and a half ago I had a “nice” career. With it, I enjoyed a steady paycheck, cheap insurance, and plenty of vacation time. Did I love my career? No. Did I feel I was giving back to the community? No. In fact, it was quite the opposite. I worked for a large insurance company and my job was to decide who could have life insurance and who was too great a risk. I didn’t love what I did and I didn’t necessarily feel good about myself. At the end of the day, I was a good provider for my family.

Today I’m thinking about how incredibly lucky I am to have been laid off from that job. Had the economy not been in the toilet, I would not be in school right now. I wouldn’t have the opportunity to give something back….to be someone better. Even though my household income has been crippled, my husband and I do not have to go hungry. We have a roof over our heads, food in our bellies, clothes on our backs. We have wonderful, supportive friends and families. We have each other. We are fortunate. Others are not so lucky. Today I feel truly blessed. Funny how everything happens for a reason.

Sorry for being all weepy – I blame hormones!!