On Friday, January 28th, 2011 I made the choice to move forward with my life versus continuing to remain stagnate or drive myself into an emotional rut.  I made the choice to be happy by quitting my job of one year and going back into the world of self employment.  Sometimes we settle for certain situations either because of comfort, finance or ignorance.  I was a victim of all three.  I wanted the comfort and security of a steady paycheck, but didn't realize when I accepted the job a little over a year ago that I would have to sacrifice my emotional well being and part of my integrity in the process.  My family suffered, the finances didn't improve and my creativity was shot to hell!  All that for a steady paycheck that was always gone as soon as it was deposited into my bank account. 

When I walked out of that medical clinic on Friday I felt lighter, as if an emotional bolder had been lifted from my shoulders.  I thought I would cry, because the steady paycheck and security of a job was now suddenly gone, but instead I felt inspired and immediately went into CEO mode regarding my career and being able to take care of my family.  I called on business mentors and people I consider to be good friends seeking advice, suggestions and some good ole moral support.  By Sunday I had decided on an office space, updated my website and contacted potential clients.  By Monday I had sent out a newsletter and was receiving calls for services.  But confirmation that I had made the right decision was when my oldest son came home and smiled because I was here to great him (that quickly faded when I got on him about his homework and chores, but hey...) and when I picked up my youngest son from school and we made it home to eat dinner before the sun went down.  My children and I actually spent some quality time together, which hadn't been done on a weekday in over a year.  When I told my dad about my decision to quit, I just knew he was going to chew me out, but instead he smiled and looked relieved as he shared that he might have surgery in a few weeks and would need me to be there with him. 

I've always believed that God works in our lives constantly, that He never sleeps.  And even when we think we've got it all figured out, He shows us a better way.  I'm glad that my former CEO insulted me on Friday and forced my hand to quit.  I'm delighted that things didn't go right at my former place of employment.  I'm also grateful for all of the hardships and obstacles that I've gone through in life, because they have made me stronger and able to endure almost anything.  This time around there ain't no more tears, because I'm doing me.