4 a.m.
In exactly 4 hours and 2 minutes, Scott (hubby, Big Daddy, BD) will know whether or not he still has a job. A job at the company he’s been loyal to for 24 years.
Let’s get this straight. I am/we are not here to whine, moan or complain. No feel bad or sympathy comments allowed! We are GOOD!
BD has been in purgatory for about six months waiting for the final sentence, making plan B’s and crafting contingencies since the stench whiff of “unification reorganization” painted the walls of his “cushy” corner office. A natural leader since birth, BD has generated almost a cult-like following of the dedicated people he has managed and directed for over two decades. He has never stooped to posture, take undue credit or whine about change. My hubby is the prime example of old-fashioned work ethic, morals and values. I definitely lucked out in the “choose the right man” category.
As 4 a.m. turned to 4:30, I realized that sleep would not return and my mind went to literature and writing technique (nerd alert!)
Being a science major, I was only required to take a minimum number of English and writing classes…most of which I tested out of and didn’t even get to take (insert frowny/pouty face). The strongest rule that stuck with me in the one writing class (business communication) that I took was the notion to use “active voice” when choosing verbs. Don’t let the verb happen to you…you happen to the verb.
Good advice in writing and in life, right?
Scott is not a passive man. He has remained active, focused and loyal as much as one can when faced with a life changing decision he has absolutely NO control over. To remain active while life ‘happens to him.’
As I laid in bed and watched the minutes tick off to twilight, I listed the passive verbs that riddle the employee in corporate America. Active in theory, passive in reality. It’s almost poetic..Something that e.e.cummings or Walt Whitman could successfully craft; but, since they aren’t here this morning, you’re stuck with me!
Life Verbs: a lesson in passive voice
Wait
Wonder
Wish
Pray
Bargain
Guess
Guess (again) (again) (again)
Worry (me)
Plan (him)
Plan (me)
Worry (him)
Pontificate
Justify
Scheme
Consider
commiserate
Conclude
Budget
Rearrange
Calculate
Wait
Wonder
Move on….
Thanks dear readers…needed to vent this morning.
6 a.m.
In two hours and 2 minutes, we will know.
Don’t worry if you don’t hear from me. Whatever happens, we’ll be busy spending life in active voice.
Michelle R. Terry 
I’m sure no matter what happens, you and BD will make the best of the situation. Oh, and if he is let go……I am so canceling my COX service!
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I just love you Lori! We had that very cancellation discussion last night!! I’m still waiting to hear…suspense is killing me! I asked to attend the meeting, but I’m pretty sure BD didn’t want a half-pint ninja kicking butts in his office 🙂
Will keep you posted!
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Bravo! Michelle. An amazing piece of writing. (One can only actively cross one’s fingers, thus mine are 😉
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Thank you so much, dear Ruth. It was one of the quickest posts I’d written and was feeling a bit “exposed” without the usual 50 edit-crutch I often employ 🙂
Thanks for the crossed fingers, too. Unfortunately, the end result was what I felt in my heart. The good news is, hubby and I spent the afternoon hanging out, having a good time and actively walking off frustration (7 miles!!)
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My dear sweet Michelle, I’ve been reading your blog for awhile and words cannot express how amazing you are with your stories and pictures and honesty. You are such an inspiration to me and know that Rich and I are just sick about what happened. Scott is an amazing smart man and Karma is a bitch. What goes around…….. Love ya sweetheart!!!!!!
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Hi Debbie!
Thank you so much for the kind words both here and in your messages to me last night. I read them all to Scott and know that they meant a lot. I’m also so touched that you’ve been following my blog. For years, I’ve watched you, admired your bravery, spirit and kind heart. As I reflect, your humor and heart are what I try to emulate when I write and it just feels right. Thanks again for your kind words….we will be in touch!
Michelle
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What a beautiful way to think during a difficult time. Hope all went well.
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Thank you for the kind words, Allison.
I feel so far behind on my WP reading. Seeing your kind words makes me wanna go curl up with the Reader and get caught up. I know you have something fabulous waiting.
Thank you again! We are hanging in okay 🙂
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Speaking of being behind with the reader — *raises hand*
Oh Michelle, I’m so sorry. Gawd, can I ever relate. I want to say something that is uplifting, hopeful, and all I can do is just feel this moment of disappointment with you and Scott. Damn, life sucks sometimes.
❤
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Hey sweet Victoria,
Just had to tell you that your hug .gif completely made my hubby’s day. I said, “See…people you don’t even know have your back!” I love the warm smile that crossed his face and knew you would, too.
We are doing fine. Went to a boxing class and kicked some “life sucks” a$$ 🙂
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*waves to Scott*
Michelle, if it’s not too expensive, can I join you and Scott in that boxing class? I’m ready to kick some “life sucks” a$$ myself. 😀
You are loved! ღ
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Oh let’s bring it! I’ll have the gloves and wraps all ready for you!
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