Parting Gift

I was laid off last month, and yes, it happens all the time, and people say it's making room for something better. Maybe it is, maybe it isn't, who knows? We can always spin things to look the way we want them to.

But.

Here's the thing.

When you are laid off, it can be hard for your co-workers to talk to you -- and sometimes even harder than it is for you to talk to them. In the past few weeks I felt a little like a character in an Edward Gorey cartoon -- and I wasn't really sure what to do about it.

And then, for no apparent reason, completely unexpectedly-- a co-worker wrote me a letter.

"Hi Jenna,

While I know we don’t work together much (or if you even know who I am), but I wanted to send you a quick note to tell you that I will miss the stand-ups you do. You always bring such joy, fun and light to the presenting as well as the scripts (I think you help write them as well). 

I’m so sorry to see you go, but I know you will do well with all the gifts and talents you have.  I still want/need to check out your book.  I’ve read the reviews and it sounds like it’s amazing!!

Good luck on your future endeavors – you will be missed.  J

--Lynsey 

Then she actually ordered the book and asked if I would sign it. And when I said yes, she drove to my house and I came outside and signed the book. Part of me wanted to burst into tears. Just knowing she cared enough to buy the book meant everything. 

So when things happen and you have no idea what to say or do or even think, maybe just a note from a co-worker who buys something you created is the universe's way of telling you, Hey, girl. You will be all right.

Today - now - this minute -- I really want to say thanks to my (now former) co-worker. What you said and did this past week was more significant than you realize, in a thousand ways.

And you know what? I promise. I will never forget.