I have had a case of the "weepies" off and on over the last week as people find out I'm leaving my job. That little catch in the throat. The quaver in the voice. The sure knowledge that at any moment the tears are going to spill and your nose is going to drip, even though your brain is sending the "cease and desist" message to the crying center.
These are some of the people I work with now. Friends I have made over the last 26 years. People I could always count on no matter what the day might bring. I am going to miss these smiles.
I can still recall the day in August of 1985 when I clocked in and started my new job as an oncology nurse in the big city. I made that choice based on a gut feeling that it was the right thing for me. I'm trusting that gut feeling again. Right now I am feeling optimistic, but I won't lie to you. There is a good measure of unease barking on the periphery just to keep me on my toes.
I think that's the way it's supposed to be.
Ahhh...and well you should be tearing up...those are long time relationships, of course you'll miss them, each and every one. But as this door closes, another is opening...new faces, places, forward looking to change, not necessarily better but different. No one wants to become stagnant...we need challenges. Cherish these people for what they've lent to your life thus far. You may be leaving but you won't be forgetting.
Best of tomorrows to you, that's my toast! S'lante !!
Joan,
Out where the west gets wild.
Posted by: Joan | 07/21/2011 at 10:26 PM
Couldn't have said it better than Joan (above) did. Best wishes as you go forward into New Adventureland.
Posted by: Judy H. | 07/22/2011 at 09:00 AM
The best thing about real friends is that we get to take them wherever we go...in our hearts and in our minds. May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind be always at your back...
Posted by: Jenny | 07/22/2011 at 10:03 AM
I so emphathize in what you are feeling. I retired after 32 years and it was so hard leaving the friends but I will say that over the years we are still friends and see each other here and there which is always fun. I wish you good things in your new job.
Posted by: Nancy Lynn | 07/22/2011 at 10:52 AM
It's plain to see that you are very much loved by your work friends.
You've never said before what you do. Now I know and I am not in the least surprised. It takes a special someone.
Posted by: Chrissy | 07/22/2011 at 11:22 AM
Carole,
I've been following the blog and love it! I know you mentioned a search previously. what are you doing next? Are you retiring or moving to another hospital? Best to you,
Lianne
Posted by: liannedepino | 07/22/2011 at 06:49 PM
I left private industry after 32 years and began a new career in government. I thought I had landed in Oz at first but now I am totally one of the munchkins and don't regret the big leap I made. Hope all your dreams come true at your new job!
Posted by: Nancy in Fair Oaks | 07/22/2011 at 09:37 PM
I'm sure every one of your colleagues, not to mention your patients will miss your incredible wit and wisdom. Best of luck in your new endeavors you'll be a star!
Posted by: Leslie J. Moran | 07/23/2011 at 10:03 AM
Time to spread your wings, you have been incubated and hatched. Funny how life does that again and again. God Speed:)
Posted by: violet cadburry | 07/23/2011 at 10:46 PM
sister i don't doubt that you will have a brand new posse of compadres at the new hospital waiting for discovery. discovery BY you. discovery OF you. and don't forgot Hilda and all the other ghosts who live at St. Johns. Of course you'll be taking them with you won't you?
Posted by: sister | 07/24/2011 at 10:21 AM