Ever since my first job as a newspaper delivery boy in the 60's I have always had a job. After the paper, I worked for McDonalds fast food and then I had a job at a bike shop in Provo, Utah. Following my mission for the LDS Church, I returned to McDonalds where I supported my wife and two sons while I attended college. I can't forget the short stint as a research assistant at BYU. Then came the REAL employment after I graduated from college. It lasted nearly four years until my first layoff in 1983. Within a few days I got another job with a higher salary and better benefits. I stayed with that company for over 28 years until I was laid off last week. They told me that my position "had been eliminated" and there was no need for someone with my skills. Part of me was angry because I did not believe what they were telling me. However, another part of me was excited as I wondered what the future would hold for me and my family.
Now I find myself among the ranks of thousands of other unemployed citizens of the United States. I can now say from personal experience that I know how it feels to be out of work.
As an engineering manager for over 25 years, I have witnessed dozens of layoffs first hand. In all cases but one, the layoff forced the employees to make decisions they normally would not have made. They were forced to take risks outside of their comfort zone. And in all but the one case, the employees quickly were back on their feet, with a new job, with a higher salary, better benefits and a new beginning.
And so I share that same optimism today. My family and I are excited about the possibilities before us. We have even discussed the possibility of moving and even changing professions. With this layoff we begin a new chapter of our life and we are optimistic about the future.
