Yesterday…

I was given a 60-day notice from my employer that my position was being eliminated. Yes, I was laid off.

After commiserating with those on my team who also experienced the same fate…

• I witnessed a family burying a loved one in a nearby cemetery.
• I leisurely ate lunch outside at my favorite burrito spot while I texted with family and friends about the news.
• I half-heartedly signed the 6-month renewal paperwork on my apartment lease.
• I picked up my son early from his after-school program. He handed me an ornament and a card he made me that day (inside the card read: I love my dad).
• I got teary eyed and choked up thinking about how much my son loves me no matter what I do or where I work.
• I enjoyed the holiday lights and festivities at Opryland with my son as he sang Christmas carols non-stop.
• I watched my son hang up Star Wars ornaments on our Christmas tree, given to us by one of my coworkers.
• We opened up a UPS box of wrapped Christmas gifts sent from our family on the West coast.
• My dog snatched one of the above-mentioned Star Wars ornaments from the Christmas tree and was gnawing on it while laying on the couch.
• I read emails, texts and chat conversations full of love and support from so many friends.
• And my girlfriend secretly dropped off a bag of encouraging items at my doorstep that she had bought for me that evening.

While you never want to be the one laid off, today reminded me that God has richly blessed me. I have food, shelter, family, friends and so much more. And no matter what happens after yesterday, I am content and full of gratitude.