I saw myself there until I didn’t need to work full time anymore.  It had become my second home, like family, I thought.  It’s funny how quickly things can change, how an okay situation can sour into something unacceptable practically overnight.  That is what happened and it is why I made the hard choice to leave the job I’d been at for 12 years.  That was over four months ago.  Things I took for granted have been taken away, friends I loved seeing everyday are now lunch dates, and many weekends are spent in the office while I get over the hump of the transition – but I am getting over the hump.

My need is not to dwell on all the details of what happened, but rather to focus on what I learned that can help me as I move forward.

I learned that it’s okay to stand up for yourself when things aren’t right even if doing so is difficult and makes other people uncomfortable.  In the end you will know for sure where you belong (or don’t belong).

I learned that after you stand up for yourself and the issues have been laid on the table it is best for your heart to let the hurt go.  Even when someone’s words and actions cause you pain, it is best to forgive.  Holding on to grudges isn’t healthy and prevents us from truly moving forward.  I wanted to start my new job with an open mind and heart so that I could fully embrace all the new experiences and friendships.

I learned that while a job you’ve been at a long time will start to feel like family, these folks are generally more motivated by their own personal goals and desires and can picture themselves without you around.  Worry most over the people that can’t see their lives without you – your true family.  If the job you are in is causing you so much distress that your family is suffering, it is time to consider a change.

Change is scary – but it is also invigorating and I now believe necessary.  If I am honest, I was in a rut at the job and I think that can happen to all of us over time.  Moving to a new position challenges us to get out of our comfort zones.  I have learned so much more in the last four months than I would have ever learned if I stayed put.  I have a new appreciation for what I am capable of and I am proud of myself in new ways.

I also believe that having God in the center of my decision making process made all the difference.  I could see him opening doors for me, I just had to be brave enough to walk through.