It was not shocking when I learned that my job was being eliminated last June, but it was disappointing. Certainly I knew the new director of the organization would make changes, but I thought I was “essential” and my job had so many aspects that no one could ever possibly replace me. How many friends in the past had I told that everybody is replaceable? Somehow when it was me that was being replaced, I felt differently.
I began to grasp the reality that I had to support myself and move on. I sent my resume to all my networking contacts. I answered a few ads. Everyone I contacted was very sympathetic and offered to help, but no jobs were in the offing. There was just not much of a market for seventy-year-olds no matter what my education or skills. So I decided to retire.
I had purchased a condo in Arlington, Virginia, at the “wrong time” in the real estate market and along with so many others I was going to have to let it go into foreclosure. That was embarrassing. I was the vice president of the Condo Association. Then I discovered I could sell my condo, but I would have to take a loss.
My favorite Scripture verse since I was a child is “I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me.” (Philip-pians 4:13). Soon I began to understand that the real way this works as I am sure St. Paul understood, is that the “through Christ” part comes from others.
I began to ponder my options when the executive director offered to let me continue my position as editor of Catechetical Leader magazine at a fixed monthly amount. That was reassuring and I was very pleased to know I would have that income, but it was not enough to make ends meet even with Social Security and a small monthly pension and continue living in the Washington, D.C. area.
I have moved 12 times in my adult life. I just felt that I could not pack up all my “stuff” and move again, but my friends said, “Yes, you can.” I am a native of Atlanta. I have many friends here ready to welcome me home. It just seemed reasonable to move back. Especially when a dear friend confirmed for me that even though she would miss me, it was the best thing I could do. With the help of friends and people I did not even know, my house was soon packed.
I found a wonderful apartment home in Alpharetta, Georgia, near my childhood friends, my small faith-community, and my fantastic parish (which paid my moving costs). Now that my cat, Gus, and I are all settled in and I have received more freelance opportunities I know for sure that…Yes, I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me through the help and kindness of others.