Christmas 2010

This is the time of year that we always seem to pause and reflect upon the year past, counting our blessings and renewing ties to friends and family.  Thus, the Season is once again upon us, and the reflection begins once again.

Despite the past year of working like a maniac, the alternative was worse.  This time last year, I didn’t have a job, and things were beginning to be rather bleak.  Having passed the PMP certification test just a month before, I was somehow envisioning job offers falling out of the sky – yes, I was becoming delusional.  But then, it’s Michigan…

My wife, God Bless Her, never lost faith.  She somehow knew that in a month, I would have two interviews and a new job. 

I still have neighbors that do not have jobs, and are in dire straights.  I just received word that a couple of friends of mine lost their jobs over the past couple of months, one with 23 years with the company.  It just goes to show that it doesn’t matter how long you were with a company, you can still be out the door in a heartbeat.

Last, the husband of a former coworker suffered a brain injury, and is no longer able to work.  Fortunately, her job is relatively secure at this time, so they are still able to live relatively comfortably with their three children.

I do not know where this upcoming year will lead us.  Work is busy, and promises to get busier (although I’m not sure how).  I’m starting to not have the time to maintain the blog much less make the rounds on the blogroll.  Even once a week postings are starting to be a strain on the schedule.  While this sounds bad, it’s really a good thing – I have a job, I earn money, and I can support my family.

While it sounds like I’m grousing, I’m not.  We all have our priorities, our wants and needs.  Sometimes they get mixed up, but a little sincere soul-searching usually puts things in their perspective.

So everyone, count your blessings, and offer prayers to those who are truly in need.  Those of us who have been there and back know that it is the thoughts that do count because that is encouragement, something that is lacking in today’s world.

Merry Christmas, Everyone!