The first time that I got laid off, there was a reorganization and I was odd man out. The second time that I got laid off, I said to the boss what others merely dream of saying. The third time I tried to be a good boy and did what the boss said, but it didn't make any difference. The fourth time I was a good boy, but the company folded anyways after a year . This last time, I was not only a good boy, but a loyal company man as well for six years (with what I thought was that ticket to retirement).
But times have changed. I have been a contractor for the past year --a hired gun paid from nine to five to do the job, then leave without a trace. I have none of the benefits (such as health insurance , sick leave, accrued vacation, 401(k) plans, and stock options) that tie permanent employees with "golden handcuffs". With the unemployment rate at 12.5% rate, my resume is carefully screened for the perfect fit by recruiters reading straight off of the job description, then offered the opportunity to "audition" for the part on a contract-to-permanent basis.
Still, I realize that I am only really responsible for the footwork, and that I need to turn over the outcome to God, who is my ultimate employer. Each day, I express gratitude that I have a roof over my head, clothes on my back, food on the table, and a few dollars saved for that rainy day. God has always has been a meaning, purpose, and plan for my life, I just have to remember that it's not up to me to know (or understand) all of the details.
