A New Job is Hope

I started applying for a new job in August. I’ve been half-heartedly looking for a year, maybe a year and a half. I kind of wanted to return to the working world but liked staying home with the kids… a lot. As I got more into art, I fell in love. So, my life is pretty awesome, according to me.

The problem is that eventually… in a decade and a half… when my husband retires, I’ll need health insurance. Generous, I mean, General Motors doesn’t provide health insurance for their salaried retirees or spouses anymore. Boo. And we can’t plan on a national health insurance system to be in place. (we can hope, lol) Him being 16 years older than me, he can’t work until I’m 65… he’d be 81. Yikes. We could pay for insurance, but neither of us is in love with that idea.

Anyway, now that both kids are in school full time, a job started to sound more appealing. Contribute to something bigger than myself. As well as the art is going, it does not pay benefits. Plus, the longer you’re out of work, the harder it is to get back in the game.

So, I kept looking.

I had a couple phone interviews in the fall. More applications, more interviews after Christmas. The in-person ones were nerve-wracking, mostly in a good way. Did I really want a job? Yes and no. I had three interviews one week and one the following week. The last interview lasted 55 minutes, which was promising. But I was emotionally drained. They told me they’d get back to me in a week and a half. Which, surprisingly, was faster than some. Others had drug me out a month or more. That night I decided I was over it. Done with applying and interviewing… for now. I’d pick back up in the fall.

But, to my surprise, two days later they called! I got the job!

I was to start in two weeks. Relief and excitement washed over me. The job is with a former employer, so I know the system. It’s in a great location, new building, easy to get to. Still, I’m aware of what I’m giving up. Volunteer opportunities. Time at my kids’ school. Time freedom. Grocery stores early on weekdays. A dedicated day to do laundry. The struggle is real.

The biggest surprise to me is my kid’s reactions. One said, “You should definitely take it, mom!” The other said, “Sounds good.” I think they might sing a different tune when I start and their lives adjust. But for now, they are supportive.

For now, I’m focusing on what I’m gaining with my new job.

A career. A cause greater than myself. Professional relationships. Opportunity. I’m choosing to believe the change will be positive with some hiccups. I can still paint on the weekends. Coming from a personal history of fear and negativity, this cognitive shift is huge. My attitude alone is a huge win. There is hope.

I choose this painting, Sunrise on the Plains as a symbol of hope. A new day dawning.

Fine more art here!

Originally published at www.leahlambart.com on April 13, 2018.