What Really Counts

I'm reading a blog titled My Unemployed Journey these days which talks of the trials and tribulations of a 40 something TV producer, once successful, but now laid off owing to the big R (that's recession). He talks about how this is a blessing in disguise in some ways...like him getting to actually watch his kids playing soccer, him being able to steal moments with his bipolar mother, him able to help out his wife with the stuff at home. But, his blog DOES NOT glorify unemployment. He makes no attempt to hide how he feels being the - oh-once successful-now-unemployed guy, but he does manage to drive home some bits about the things that really count in life. Reading his blog this morning, sort of sent me into flashback mode to something that happened 2 years ago. My company was going through a tough time and there was a meeting held for a couple of us managers. I being the pessimist, assumed the worst and my head was reeling as we sat there in the conference room, waiting for the MD to come in and brief us. Finally, I said to myself, 'What's the worst that could happen?' The answers were--1. I lose my job 2.Get one that pays much less and that was it. I'd still have a supportive dad, loving mom and a sister who would make me laugh--those who'd treat me the same even if I earned a few grands less. And then...I waited for the MD to come in and brief us--about whatever it was.

Those few moments in the conference room, changed my perspective towards life and what really counts. That is not say I'm any less committed towards my work, or don't value money, just that I now do what I'm doing because I enjoy it...

And the briefing that day...was about something so inconsequential that I don't even remember it anymore!