I forgot an important date yesterday!

April 6, 2021

I forgot an important date yesterday! Four years ago on April 5, 2017, my position was eliminated with the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador. As I remember every part of that day so clearly, I am surprised I forgot the anniversary of that event yesterday.

The day began five weeks before. In February I learned I would have to compete for my job against my current colleagues. For five weeks I went to work every day knowing that there was no good outcome for me. If successful, my position would move to St. John’s. Alternatively, the other outcome was not being successful and therefore not having a job.

During those weeks I had many visitors to my office. My clients were incredibly supportive and encouraging. Many were friends and they constantly checked in on me to make sure I was okay. Many brought gifts to brighten my day.

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A cheerful bouquet from a client and dear friend.

That day started like most; however, we quickly found out that it was going to be “the day”. The day when I found out if I still had a job. I received a phone call to set my appointment time. According to my colleagues I was the fourth meeting. My department was keeping only three positions. As a result, I knew my fate. I started a list of things to remember in the 15 minutes that I knew I would have to clean out my office. It included remembering to take my jam out of the fridge. I packed my toaster oven and other personal items that I had not yet brought home.

At my appointed time, I received the expected and unwelcome news I was no longer required in my position. Clients surrounded me as I was escorted out of the building. As it was near lunch time, and people saw me packing my car, there was an impromptu gathering of well-wishers, hugs, tears, and yes, laughs in the parking lot.

The support of so many of those clients has led to my success today. I remember thinking in the first year after that day that I must have done something right in my time at the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador. I still have strong connections to people from my time there. They are still checking in on me to see if I am okay. I must be okay if I forgot the anniversary of that day yesterday. ~ Carole