Monday, September 17, 2007

It's a sad day....

Whew. My eyes are red and puffy and my face is red and swollen. What a sight I make.

I thought about posting this earlier today, but I just couldn't bring myself to do it right then. It's only been after I've had a few hours to reflect on things that I feel strong enough to sit down and write what's on my heart. That I felt strong enough to share with you what happened just a few hours ago.

My husband was fired this morning.

While it's a huge shock, it was not a complete surprise to us. You all remember, I'm sure, that Doug's big boss was fired this summer and a new man (a clean up man) was brought in to replace him immediately. A few weeks ago, Doug heard a rumor about he was going to be fired at the end of September. So he went in to his immediate boss (not the new guy) and confronted him with what he had heard. This man didn't deny it, but assured Doug that everybody's name had been discussed, not just his. He promised Doug he was pulling for him (we truely believe he was, he and Doug go way back) and trying to keep him there, but couldn't tell him anything for sure at that point. He promised to tell Doug as soon as he knew something. That day was today.

There were three men in his dismissal meeting. The Big Guy. Doug's immediate boss. And the Comptroller. Doug's immediate boss was more choked up than Doug was after he broke the news. The new boss even had a tear in his eye. You see, Doug is very well thought of, by everyone. Like he said today, he's proud to say he's fairly certain he has no enemies. Those of you reading this that know Doug, know of what I speak. He's got a big, kind, goofy heart. They just felt they needed to move in a new direction and he was not the person to take them there. Wham. Bam. Thank you Maa'm. We are lucky in that he had a 6-month severance package negotiated in his contract. So we've got some time as far as that goes.

I have learned so much from Doug today. He has handled this difficult situation with grace and dignity. He has kept his head held high and comforted those who were more upset than he. His cell phone and our personal phone have been ringing off the hook. He was nary three hours unemployed when a good friend was already calling him about possible hire. With his excellent reputation in the industry, we have high hopes something will come along relatively soon.

In BSF, we are studying the book of Matthew. For our first lesson, we had to read through the ENTIRE book of Matthew this week. Ackkkk! We've never had to do that before. I've wondered, all week long, WHY we needed to do this. Well, today I think I figured out the answer to that question. In this newest burden God has placed before me, I truely believe he is challenging my faith in Him. My faith in this one God that provides me with everything I should ever need. My faith should not be wavering. I should stand firm in the knowledge that he cares for those who love him. These are just a few of the verses that spoke loud and clear to me today while I was working on my lesson late this afternoon....

Matthew 6:31...."So don't worry about these things, saying 'what will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?' These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. Seek the kingdom of God above all else, and live rightously, and he will give you everything you need. So don't worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring it's own worries. Today's worries are enough for today."

Matthew 11:28...Jesus said, "Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light."

Matthew 21:21-22....And Jesus told them, "I tell you the truth, if you have faith and don't doubt, you can do great things like this and much more. You can even say to this mountain, 'May you be lifted up and thrown into the sea,' and it will happen. You can pray for anything, and if you have faith, you will receive it."

Amen.

Hugs,
Amy




53 comments:

  1. Anonymous8:08 PM

    ** HUGZ **

    As you say God has a purpose and a reason for everything...so everything will work out just fine.

    Sending thoughts & prayers your way.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers. Having that little extra time to reflect on where he wants to take his career and find the right next thing seems like a genuine blessing amid all the uncertainty.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Anonymous8:38 PM

    Remember, when God closes one doorway, he opens another - and He's watching over you - I bet your husband is destined for even better and greater things! Saying a prayer for you guys today!!

    ReplyDelete
  4. Oh Amy...I'm so sorry. We've been in this situation so many times and all I can say is....GOD is faithful and will meet your needs. I can look back and see his hand saving us time and time again. He does hear, He does answer prayers and He does care about you and your Hubby.

    ReplyDelete
  5. Your husband sounds like a wonderful man, God has a plan for all of our lives He'll work it out for you. I love the verses in the study you were working on today. We serve an awesome God and He speaks to us thorugh His word.

    Hugs and prayers to you!

    ReplyDelete
  6. Amy..I'm so sorry!! We have been through this so many times and all I can tell you is...GOD is faithful and will meet your needs. When I think of all the times GOD has pulled us out of the fire, I know that HE hears, HE answers prayers, and HE loves you and your Hubby.

    ReplyDelete
  7. Amen. And big hugs and prayers to you & the family, Amy!

    ReplyDelete
  8. Anonymous9:21 PM

    Your family is in my prayers.

    ReplyDelete
  9. Anonymous9:36 PM

    I'm so sorry. Your husband sounds like a wonderful guy, and I know this will work out for the best. Hugs and prayers.

    ReplyDelete
  10. I lost my job as an engineer with a very small oil company at the end of March. One door closed and I found a better one to open up. I figure if they don't value to keep you then they aren't worthy of you. Your hubby will find a better place to everyday! Good luck to you.

    ReplyDelete
  11. Just keep reminding yourself how faithful God has been in the past & how He never changes! He WILL take care of you because you are His children!!!

    ReplyDelete
  12. Matthew 11:28 is a scripture I truly love. I am so sorry to hear of your news. Sometimes our Heavenly Father gives us the Opportunity to grow that we will not give to our self. All will be well you are bless with each other and two beautiful children.
    Hugs and prayers sent your way.

    Brooke

    ReplyDelete
  13. Wow! God's blessings are amazing and he put that scripture in front of you because you needed to hear it. I will keep you and your family in my prayers.

    ReplyDelete
  14. Well said Amy - it is always hard when our plans don't turn out to be God's but always remember that His way is best and He is working that best in you & your husband! You're in my prayers!

    ReplyDelete
  15. Anonymous10:21 PM

    I am so sorry that your dh lost his job. Keep your faith like you are and everything will be fine. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. I pray that your dh finds something soon and maybe this will something greater than what was. ((((HUGS))))-Samantha

    ReplyDelete
  16. Wow. Been there, done that so I wish you the best of luck. My hubby got 3 months, and we just found out we were pregnant with son #2. It was not a pretty few months! But, it ended well. We came back to Nebraska, which felt like home right away and has been for 10 years now! I'll be thinking of you!!!

    ReplyDelete
  17. Amy I'm sorry to hear this. Hopefully it will lead to bigger and better opportunities for your husband.
    Just know that there are a lot of us sending good thoughts your way...

    ReplyDelete
  18. Wow - praying for you. As a missionary mom I have had to come back to those verses sooooooo many times. Looks like you have your eyes in the right place. Hang on to Him and keep walking.

    Hugs from this side of the world,
    Dina

    ReplyDelete
  19. Amy,

    Sending hugs your way. I know just what you're going through as my husband lost his job of 12 years last month. I know God is faithful and will be there with you each step of the way.

    ReplyDelete
  20. Anonymous11:38 PM

    Amy,
    Although I sometimes feel that the internet must have been invented by the devil himself, it is times like this - when we have the opportunity to reach out and send cyber hugs to our dear sisters in Christ - that I can see how God can use anything! Your blog has blessed so many people and I know that God will use this to bless your family and so many others who will see God's faithfulness working in your lives. Thanks for sharing your heart and for giving us the chance to pray with you and for you. God Bless.
    Jer. 29: 11-13
    Britiney (Britiney on SCS)

    ReplyDelete
  21. the Lord does work in mysterious ways. He has given you the comfort you needed before you even new it was needed. I am sure hubby will find that open window to his future in a short time. I will keep you in my prayers

    ReplyDelete
  22. Anonymous12:38 AM

    Aww, Amy. Big hugs to you. God's ways are perfect and He is in control. Blessings.

    ReplyDelete
  23. awwwww (((hugs))))))) Sounds like it'll be time for God to show up in power...look out for low-flying miracles! Praying for you, Amy!

    ReplyDelete
  24. Hey Amy, Its easy for us at this end to tell you that everything will turn out fine in the end. As someone who is facing the ordeal, it just doesn't seem easy as the words sound. But I do believe that when God closes a door, He does open a window, to something new, something different that you might not have seen before. So keep the faith, there's a reason to everything, and it is revealed in His own time. {{{HUGS}}}

    ReplyDelete
  25. oh boy that sucks, sending hugs & thoughts your way

    *G*

    ReplyDelete
  26. Anonymous5:47 AM

    So sorry to hear about your husband! Whew! What a trying year you have had! I will keep your family in my prayers!
    Judy

    ReplyDelete
  27. Anonymous5:52 AM

    Oh my goodness! God sure opened that window quick. Im still unemp. since last December.Unemployment ran out long ago. My tax return is going to run out this next month and Im a single mom who cant find a job. Welfare is not an option. Good luck Im sending hugs.

    ReplyDelete
  28. Sorry to hear the sad news. This happened to me just last month, after being at my job for 23 years. The way I look at it is....God has something else in store for me. What? Who knows, only he knows. But I know it will be better then what I had. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

    ReplyDelete
  29. Amy, so sorry you've had such a rough day. Thinking of you and your family.

    ReplyDelete
  30. While this will be a huge challenge for your and your family, you will come through the door into a newer and better place than you left. There have been many such trials in my life and always, always, always God has brought me and mine through them. Holding the Faith that you have will sustain you all now and always. God Bless.

    ReplyDelete
  31. Amy, I'm so sorry to hear that. I know this has to be hard for your family. I can't imagine the stress I would be under if this happened to my husband. But as you said God is here and he has a plan for your family, and this was just a part of that plan. It isn't always easy, but it will get better.

    ReplyDelete
  32. Anonymous7:12 AM

    Amy, we have been in the same situation and I feel for you and the family. Even if you knew it was a possibility, it is still a shock! Places just don't seem to value employees anymore, and unfortunately, this is a common occurance.

    Even though it is hard not to question "why?" you just need to trust that this is part of God's plan and everything will work out.

    Keeping all of you in our thoughts and prayers.

    Sue

    ReplyDelete
  33. Anonymous7:46 AM

    I'm sorry you had such a difficult day. My DH lost his job of 37 years, and I lost mine of 23 years - and both of us suddenly found ourselves unemployed within 6 months of each other. I wish people appreciated each other within the work force much more than they do in this day and age, but unfortunately the almighty dollar seems to be of more value than the loyalty of hard-working employees. You hear of this more and more every day. I totally understand what you're experiencing right now. It's extremely hard to accept what you're up against in spite of all your faith and support. I send big hugs your way and with help from above, I'm sure your family will get through this. Keep your chin up!!

    ReplyDelete
  34. Anonymous8:31 AM

    Sometimes what seems like a loss is only the first step towards a gain. I have faith this will become an opportunity for something even better. Best wishes to you and your hubby.

    ReplyDelete
  35. Amy, I just read your post. I am so, so very sorry that you are having to endure this. But I know you and your family will come through with flying colors, greater strength and a stronger faith. Best wishes and big {{{HUGS}}} to you all.

    ReplyDelete
  36. Anonymous8:47 AM

    {{{{HUGS}}}

    What a bummer....God must have something bigger and better planned for your DH and your family!!

    ReplyDelete
  37. Prayers go out to you and your family!
    May you find joy in unexpected places today!!!!!
    {{{{HUGS}}}}
    ~Lana B.~

    ReplyDelete
  38. I'll be praying for you and your family Amy.

    ReplyDelete
  39. I am so sorry to hear what you are going through. How appropriate to be reading Matthew. The passages were an interesting read. TFS.

    ReplyDelete
  40. Amy, I sit here with tears in my eyes for you, not easy news to digest. I've followed your blog for a while now and I know you and your family are good people and good things happen to good people. I know good things are coming your way!! Take care!

    ReplyDelete
  41. {{hug}} Amy, sorry to hear your family's news! I totally know all too well the feelings y'all are experiencing! In our 10 yrs of marriage DH was laid off 2 times and I was once. It was a shocker every time...but our trust lies where yours does and HE saw us through all the times and KNEW (Jer. 29:11) more than we did, actually what great stuff was in store for us! so believe that things will be BETTER for your husband & your family! I'll believe with you!

    ReplyDelete
  42. Oh Amy - sending you HUGS! We've been down that unemployed road many times and it's never easy, but God always has something better planned for the future.

    ReplyDelete
  43. Amy,

    It's at times like this that God really shines His light on His plans. Hang in there and know that you and your family are being held up in prayer!

    Many Blessings,
    M.

    ReplyDelete
  44. Anyone who knows me knows that I am a firm believer in "things happen for a reason". God does sometimes close doors on us, but opens new ones. {{HUGS}}! I'll be thinking about you guys!

    ReplyDelete
  45. I was so busy yesterday that I didn't have time to "blurf" and now I wish I had. Wow Amy...(hugs). God always has a plan and you just need to trust that He will reveal it soon enough. Isn't it amazing how He prepares us for what is to come. The very fact that you were reading Matthew just makes me smile. Amy, you and your family are in my prayers. Hugs.

    ReplyDelete
  46. Anonymous2:25 PM

    My husband and I went thru this when his company downsized. After 15 years employment and at age 46 he was fired. You are lucky you have your severance package. My suggestion is that you don't dally however to start networking. When you are numb sometimes you just are inactive...and you don't move ahead without movement.

    I will pray that you will have a good outcome. My husband is now employed again and we survived and I know your family will as well.

    ReplyDelete
  47. Anonymous4:32 PM

    HUGS HUGS HUGS!! With his Employment history he's sure to snag a BETTER JOB soon!! My prayers are with you.

    ReplyDelete
  48. Amy I'm so sorry. I am a true believer that things happen for a reason and when God closes one door another one opens. It's hard to understand when you are in the midst of the struggle, but just continue to have faith that God will provide. You and Doug are in my prayers. ((((hugs)))

    ReplyDelete
  49. Anonymous6:30 PM

    Big cyber hugs!!!!

    ReplyDelete
  50. OH Amy, I'm so sorry to hear this! Know that you'll be in my thoughts and prayers!

    ReplyDelete
  51. Anonymous8:40 PM

    Oh, Amy, I just read your news....I'm so sorry. My heart goes out to you. I know this seems like such a disappointment right now and very scary. But things have a way of working out. Months from now you'll look back on this and make a comment about how "it's funny how things happen for a reason". I'm sure new, possibly better than you could dream, opportunities await.

    ReplyDelete
  52. So sorry to hear, Amy. We've been down that long, hard road, too, and I feel for you. Just remember that whatever is meant to be, will be . . . in time. Hugs,

    ReplyDelete
  53. Just remember no door closes with another opening. I am sure everything will be fine. In the meantime I will keep you and your family in my prayers

    ReplyDelete

Blog Widget by LinkWithin