Recently, I have been feeling depressed about the state of my economy. I'm currently unemployed (26 tenure track applications and 3 visiting applications) with no apparent prospects. I have begun to pack some of my belongings as I am selling some of my furniture and I had to move out of my office on campus. Packing without a clue as to where you are moving is a bit weird. I think I have a part-time summer job that will at least pay my rent and put food on my table (although not much more than that), but I received my last paycheck on May 8 and I don't know when another is coming.
However, as I walked to the mailbox this afternoon, something happened that completely changed my perspective. There was a couple, who didn't appear too much older than myself digging through one of the dumpsters in my townhome complex. As soon as the couple saw me, they made a beeline for their vehicle, so I was not able to see if I could be of help to them. This encounter made me grateful that I am where I am. I may not know what the future holds and I may not be financially stable right now, but there are many people in the world who have less than myself. One might say that my experience this afternoon was a reality check. I am now much more thankful for what I do have. Although I'm still worried about the future, I have a new perspective. I'm also on the lookout for the couple who was digging through our dumpster - maybe I can help them in the future.
However, as I walked to the mailbox this afternoon, something happened that completely changed my perspective. There was a couple, who didn't appear too much older than myself digging through one of the dumpsters in my townhome complex. As soon as the couple saw me, they made a beeline for their vehicle, so I was not able to see if I could be of help to them. This encounter made me grateful that I am where I am. I may not know what the future holds and I may not be financially stable right now, but there are many people in the world who have less than myself. One might say that my experience this afternoon was a reality check. I am now much more thankful for what I do have. Although I'm still worried about the future, I have a new perspective. I'm also on the lookout for the couple who was digging through our dumpster - maybe I can help them in the future.
1 comment:
Not knowing is always hard isn't it?
When my husband is done with his PHD we might very well end up gypsies if the economy hasn't improved...... having gained a lot pf perspective myself living over here I also am no longer worried about that possibility.
I came across a site the other day of a man who only his motorcycle, one bag, and his dog. He rides across America taking amazing photos and sells or trades them to the locals. He is content.
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