Well, the other day I came across the following comic and it made me laugh out loud (literally). I never actually thought that this cartoon would feel like real life. But, today it does. Take a peek and allow me to explain:
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As a blogger that really, really cares about what she writes and the people that read, blogging feels like a job to me, even though I don’t get paid as much as I would for a full-time job. It feels like a certain kind of job, A DREAM JOB! I mean that in every sense of the phrase. I love writing, being creative, being encouraged to try new things, hearing from you (readers and other bloggers), connecting with like-minded companies and making new friends. Most of all, I love that my writing helps people. I love getting comments and tweets from all of you. I get countless e-mails daily from people asking advice even about things that are not blog related per se, from dealing with a family member who is suffering from addiction to um…bikini waxes (it hurts- it’s worth it, ladies- promise. I do have several tips to make it a less painful experience).
I love the support I get from all of you as well. The encouragement has provided me with the confidence and drive to try things I would have been petrified to attempt (cough , cough: training for a marathon). I hope that you will all continue to push me and encourage me. For the past week I have been writing about something going on in my life that I was not yet ready to talk about. I am ready now, and I want to thank you from the very, very, bottom of my heart for you support and e-mails.
As of tomorrow at 4:45 pm, I will no longer be employed by the University I have worked for for almost 4 years. It is a long story, but my leaving is not 100% my choice and has come as a bit of a shock as I was unprepared for my departure (and no, before the rumors start, I was not fired). It is a long story and I prefer not to get into all the details as I don’t think I need to. It is between me and my employer and I thank you kindly for respecting that
As you can imagine the very unexpected loss of a job is stressful, especially since Adam and I are renovating a house and therefor not living there (aka paying rent and a mortgage). Also, I will now have to pay my tuition out of pocket for my last two semesters of graduate school.
At the end of the day, I am sad and disappointed and REALLY STRESSED! But, let’s be honest, life could be worse, right? I have my health (errr…for the most part), I am SURROUNDED by love, and I have my faith that things will work out and that God has a plan for me. Really, what else does a girl need, right?
I am a firm believer that if you want something, you need to put it out there to the universe and ask for it. That being said, here is my little note to our lovely universe:
Dear Universe:
First of all, thanks for being so huge and awesome!
With love and absolute awe,
Ali (earthing)
So there you have it, that is what is going on! I have let the proverbial cat out of the bag. Thanks for your concern and compassion over the last week. You guys seriously ROCK! xoxoxoxox
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I’m so sorry to hear it but I know you will make the best of your new circumstances. Just think – maybe the next job will be amazing and you’ll be thankful that you left your old one! Best of luck!
That is awful news…I can only imagine what a blow it is, especially factoring all the $$ stressess associated. My mom always told me that everything happens for a reason – which is actually the most annoying thing to hear when you’re dealt a really crappy hand – but over time, I’ve come to see it’s true. Something amazing is on your horizon.
I’m so sorry about the job. Good news though..I know two people who work at colleges/universities in the boston area. email me and let me know what you’re looking for and I will ask them if they are hiring!
Thanks for sharing Ali.
For some reasons I find myself in a comparable situation. I am not unemployed but I have to face a very tough time. Hope we can both push through it till it gets better.
If anyone can tough out a difficult time, and come out on top, it’s you. You know I’ve got your back, and am rooting for you 100%. xoxo
We don’t always know the reason for why things happen, but I’m sure there is one. Just stay strong, keep the faith and work hard. Sucks now, but I’m sure it will be just another bump in the road when it’s all said and done. Good luck and keep your head up!!
I am so so sorry to hear about your situation Ali!! To echo another poster, I have a relative who works at a college here in Boston (right around the corner from me!) if you end up looking for anything in the related field.
Warren Tavern on Sunday?
I’m sorry about the job loss. That definitely stinks. Though, this does give you time to possibly make blogging your FT job, which would probably be awesome (and I bet would make Oscar SUPER happy!) Good luck!
Ali, I am sorry about your situation. I love reading your blog and I appreciate you as a writer. Good Luck and do what you need to do to make yourself happy.
so sorry to hear your news! thank you for sharing as it was hard im sure. you are a strong beautiful woman and you will be just fine! Good luck with your next move in life!!
You’re amazing! I know you’ll get through this – God doesn’t give us anything we can’t handle. But if I can help in ANY way please let me know!
I’m a new-ish reader and got hooked on our similarities but also your positive outlook. Your attitude is something to be proud of and something that we all can aspire to have! You will make it through this and any other situation that comes your way.
As a fellow marathon runner, I always remember “Don’t be a horse race, be a marathon” and take it day by day.
Ugh such a bummer and really it could not come at a worse time! I hope you find something BETTER and fast so that you don’t even have a chance to dwell on it. You’re a strong girl and you can handle this! Not going to lie though, I am totally nosy and wish you could give us all the juicy gossip.
Keeping you and Mr. FFF (and Oscar, duh) in my thoughts!
I am so sorry to hear this Ali
Going to and paying for grad school is scary enough and Im sure this is petrifying. I know that something will work out for you and that you will get through this but in the mean time, we (your loving readers) are here to support you as best we can…along with all the other awesome people in your life. Praying for you girl 
Im so sorry you are dealing with this. But to think positive: maybe it will open the door to something great! You just never know
Keep your chin up!
Sorry to read this downer news Ali! I think you are the type of person to find the opportunity in all of this though. Will be reading along to hear how it all unfolds! Good luck!
I am so sorry to hear about your job..when one door closes another one opens. Stay strong!
it is never fun being unemployed. Perhaps you can look into unemployment. And maybe some financial aid. Fill out a fasfa as soon as possible, you might qualify for something. Keep your chin up and keep busy. I am sure you have many networking contacts that will help you. That and your very supportive family and I am sure you will do fine.
while this is an unexpected shock & loss on your part, but you never know what’s waiting for you! This could an unexpected blessing in disguise!! I am happy that this is all it is a job loss! I was dreading god awful news!!! Shit Al I was worried!!! Lol good luck with all you have going on, you’ll get through just like you always do with a smile a laugh and a witty comment!! you many have to run a few marathons and maybe compete in a triathon, but time heals all wounds and you’ll be stronger than ever!
<3 Lots of love & hugs ali
Oh Ali, that is such a tough situation but it sounds like you definitely have a positive attitude moving forward. If you have the option, consider looking for a graduate assistantship. It often provides a small stipend and covers tuition, which could definitely help! Good luck with everything!
You got this, Ali. I love reading your blog. A positive attitude goes a long way, as well as believing in yourself. Keep your eye on the prize lady!
Sorry to hear about your job, it can’t be easy for anyone. Luckily you’re talented and shouldn’t have any problem succeeding at the next job you pursue- you can put that master’s degree to use! I commend you for keeping a positive attitude… It sounds like you have a very supportive and caring family, as well as a blogging community that will always be there too!
You have a great attitude about everything that’s going on! And you will come out better on the other side, especially with all your energy and passion. Good luck! We’re all excited for your next chapter!
Ali – you are such a strong-willed, independent, determined, loving, insightful and driven individual and I truly believe you will encounter a rewarding opportunity soon. You have such a great attitude about this all and I wish you the best of luck, everything does happen for a reason, and this reason will be worth it
what an amazing post, fueled by a shitty situation. What doesn’t kill us….. right? I wish the best for you and Adam! I’ll be out of a job October 1 and am in denial right now but can only imagine how tough it will be in a few weeks. Want to apply for jobs at coffee shops together?? XOX Jenna
So sorry Ali!!!! But you are one of the strongest women I know and I know for certain you will bounce back with an even better opportunity to come your way! I know the feeling all too well – twice in the last 2 years!
Stay positive and the as you mentioned, the laws of attraction will land you right where you want to be!
((HUGS))
Lisa
I’m so sorry to hear about your job! You are an amazing blogger and I have faith that you’ll bounce back from this. The struggles are what make us stronger
Everything happens for a reason and it may suck right now, but it will all work out in the end!!
I’m so sorry to hear about the job loss Ali, I can’t even begin to imagine what you’re going through.
You will land on your feet and it will all come full circle. I’m a firm believer that everything happens for a reason – the good and the bad. You may not know the reason now, but you will.
Good luck with your future, keep your head up, and stay strong.
I am also sorry to hear about your job loss. Hopefully this will work for you for good in unexpected ways.
Ali,
I have been a silent reader of your blog for over a year now. Even though we weren’t close in college, I still feel a bond between us because our graduating class consisted only of 90 amazing women. I can relate to so many of the topics you write about from mysterious undiagnosed illness, to hiding your true confidence for fear of portraying bitchiness to having a wonderful family who supports you in whatever you do. Sometimes in my life I find myself trying act like a superhero, like I can accomplish it all without any help. Maybe I feel this way because of the education we received, while it truly was empowering, sometimes it really makes it difficult to reach out for help. My boyfriend and I recently purchased a business together, it was a very long 9 month process before we could officially say we owned it. Both of us were unemployed during this time, he would repair vehicles on the side and I was consulting to keep our head above water. At 29 years old I thought I was done with needing help from my parents. Just like you, I have amazing parents who would truly do anything to help me. They forced me to realize it was ok to ask for help, or at least not turn it away. Don’t be afraid to lean on your family and friends when you need them. It may seem hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel but you will make it out of this even stronger than you are now. I really do believe things happen for a reason and you know you have all our support as you make this major life change. Best of luck to you in whatever path you choose to take
Bethany
That just sucks! You have an awesome attitude though, and that energy put into the universe will hopefully come right back at you with positive things. Plus, being a blogger gives you a huge network and great resources to draw from. Good luck!
Well, you’ve known my feelings about that place for a long time. It blows and YOU, my dear are better off. There are some great great people that work there, but then there are also some wannabe bigwig assholes that call all the shots. Thankfully, you got what you could out of it and will move on to waaay bigger and better things! You will be fine and it’s their loss!
Sorry to hear that, Ali. I had a feeling thats what it was…now adays its happening way too often. You just gotta keep the faith, God will put you where you ultimately belong! Last week my boyfriend got fired from one job and hired at another all in the same day!! You just gotta go out there and go for things! You never know what can happen! Good luck to you, and just keep praying!
I’m SO sorry for what you’re going through. I can’t even imagine how you’re feeling. The thing I know about you, through your blog, is that you hare incredibly strong, hold your head up and persevere through any situation! I really admire that.
Wow, what a scary and exciting time! Keep the faith, doors will open for you!
Sorry to hear about your job loss. This is a difficult time, to be sure, but you will get through it. I’ve been where you are now, and I was overwhelmed, frustrated, scared, sad, and angry. And if I’m honest, I was also relieved. I was forced to re-evaluate my life and my career path. Once the shock of losing my job wore off I took the time to figure out where to go next. And my job loss turned out to be a good thing for me because I took control of the situation.
I’ve been reading your blog for some time now and one thing I’ve learned about you – you are someone who is willing and able to address things head-on. Challenges don’t intimidate you!
Lots of good comes out of pain and struggle (think about child birth for crying out loud!). This is a new chapter for you and you get to write it.
I got pretty good at writing resumes. If you need a proofreader let me know. I wish you all the best. Good luck!