Because he didn't want me to hear him cry. He had just been laid off with no benefits and no severance. He feels like such a failure, and he doesn't know how to face his wife and daughters. After I called him back several times and got no answer, he shot me an email, apologizing for "dropping the phone."
My feelings about this are very complicated. Of course I'm heartbroken for him. On the other hand, he hasn't liked this job for a while, and maybe this is an opportunity to try something new. But then, there's the HOUSE. 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, a den, and multiple fireplaces. They will never be able to sell that sucker in this market. So whatever he does next, he has to make enough to pay that freaking mortgage. I never thought that house was a good idea, but that doesn't mean I don't hate being right.
I also wish he didn't feel embarrassed about the tears. This is ME, after all. He knows I'll love him no matter what, that I have faith in him. And that his family loves him, too. I told him they treasure him for who he is, not what he does. I'm very good with being right about that.
These are the thoughts and observations of me — a woman of a certain age. (Oh, my, God, I'm 65!) I'm single. I'm successful enough (independent, self supporting). I live just outside Chicago, the best city in the world. I'm an aunt and a friend. I feel that voices like mine are rather underrepresented online or in print. So here I am. If my musings resonate with you, please visit my blog again sometime.
oh my...hope he can find another job soon. holy cow that is a huge house!
ReplyDeleteOh, I'm so sorry for your friend!
ReplyDeleteWhat a shame. I hope your friend finds something soon. So many people define themselves by what they do, it was good of you to remind him that his family and friends love HIM, not his job.
ReplyDelete