Now, week after week I see Mr. Boss coming to work looking rather haggard at times. Sleepless eyes and weakening limbs. He's plagued by a back that more than twinges and during this stressful time of businesses going down, the back was uncooperative. Week after week my stomach's been in knots at the end of the day, wondering if tomorrow the ax will fall.
This past Thursday I was called in for the meeting I've been anticipating. I was almost giddy as we went to the conference room just for the fact of KNOWING what the plan was for me even if it wasn't what I hoped for. I didn't want to be unemployed but at least when you know what's coming your mind set can move in another direction.
As we sat down, we chit-chatted for a minute and I asked Mr. Boss how he was doing. He stated that it's been the hardest time in his life as a business owner. I told him I've been praying for him and our company for months during these trying times. Then, not surprisingly, Mr. Boss said "Unfortunately, things aren't good and we can't continue to operate in the manner we have been and stay in business. Sales aren't going out and receivables aren't coming in. It's economically impossible to continue to operate the way we have been and remain a company." I knew this. Then, surprisingly, Mr. Boss said, "I want you to think about something. As far as the office is concerned, I am going to lay you off, but not lay you off." Huh? What a turn about!
He continued to say, I would be removed from the element in which I work and set up in another room in the building to strictly focus on accounts that haven't been pursued via our database, our ignored house accounts and working on an industry list to generate some sales. Additionally, Mr. Boss said that our company has been considering adding an additional product line of steel and perhaps I would exclusively manage those sales as a separate entity of our company. Go ahead and think about it, he offered. Two seconds went by and I said yes.
I was honored that Mr. Boss felt strongly enough about keeping me on the payroll as an asset to this company and created a place for me. Overwhelmed with thankfulness, really. In the mix of time I was also able to negotiate a little different start/end work day too, which makes my life a bit easier for my evening obligations. We both seemed satisfied when we left our meeting. I thanked him for giving me this opportunity and Mr. Boss said, "see, maybe your prayers are being answered."
I drove home in conversation with God and thanked Him too, for the trust that has been given to me and prayed that this transition, which will be in about three weeks, will go as Mr. Boss has imagined it would with sales numbers improving. They may be slow at first, I reasoned, but asked God that something would be generated in a quick enough time frame so Mr. Boss can breathe a little bit easier and know that he made the right decision in keeping me on in this capacity.
The next evening another shop employee was laid off.
I'm grateful for the fact that I now know I'm powerless but also am assured that I'm in the palm of the One who has His eye on my every breath. I love it even more that this assurance isn't exclusively mine. You can know this too.
"Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand."
Phil. 4:6a
*All pics googled*
10 comments:
That is so wonderful! It must have been such a great feeling. You were expecting the worst, but had such a great outcome! Congrats! You are something special and your boss knows it.
...hadn't forgot about you, had some bumps in the road of late. This is a great post, Romans 8:28 is true.
All I can say is "WOW".
Laura, to me, this is a most beautiful post of Faith, Hope, Trust in God's Providence, and Love...The love of God for us all, the love of your Mr Boss, who is moved by that same Spirit we all know, and which moves ever so silently among us.
Thank you for sharing a "happy" moment in your life. the best part, I think, was when you wrote, "You can know this too." That offers hope to all who are anxious.
Just found your blog and couldnt stop reading. This is so awesome for you. I am so glad in you getting the change and help to get your company stabilized. Particularly during this hard times it is an honor, however it is a huge huge responsibility too. Wish you and the company all success possible and hope your boss is getting better soon. Hugs around the globe. Paula
Laura, I am so happy for you. What a relief and I love your reminder about believing and trusting in the One who truly does hold us in the palm of His hand.
Way to go Sis! See, all that tormenting I did of you as a child helped you face this situation with clarity and determination........ :o)
It's nice to see you are being recognized both here in this plane and spiritually as well. By the wya, you are a damn fine writer!
Love,
The Piggy Bank Kid
God has been working overtime in your life, missy! I'm so happy to hear this news, I know it has been hanging over you.
He sure has, Lou! I am so happy and thankful too!
Laura, I hope that all continues to go well for you. These are tough times for so many. It sounds like a great thing has come your way.
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