“When one door closes, another opens; but we often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door that we do not see the one which has opened for us.” Alexander Graham Bell.
I have lived that quote over and over in my life. Most recently, it relates to where I live and work.
I was happily teaching at a school that gave me a place for personal and professional growth. The administration changed year three and I was not happy with how the school’s leadership transformed the school climate. I centered my energy on my children, my students, my colleagues and myself. As time went on during year three and four, the administration made it very difficult to work there. I was ‘targeted’ by an administrator. We did not have the same values and when push came to shove I made the second most difficult decision in my life. I decided to leave without having another job. Not only was I devastated personally on so many levels, I also was broken hearted about disappointing my son, who was a sophomore and wanted to graduate from his school of 5 years. But, I took a leap and for my own personal well being left a school I loved. I worried, would I ever find a place that would fill me like the school I was leaving? Would I find friends that would be so dear to me, they are my family? Would my son survive the difficult change to another school as a junior?
This is where that other door or window comes in….or actually an angel…Susan. There is no other way to describe her connection to my life. She is an inspiration and someone who I hold very dear to my heart. She was the angel that provided the other door at two pivotal times in my life. She believed in me and had faith that things would work out…which they did and always do.
I am now working at a school of my dreams. The climate is one of respect and caring. The administration treats you as a human being first and then an employee. There are not many schools that do that. I am supported both personally and professionally. I am valued and I have developed deep friendships that will last the test of time.
My son has carried on, and it has not been easy. But he continues to be loved and respected by those around him. When I told him that very memorable Monday evening that I had to leave my job and we had to move from his home of 5 years, he protested and encouraged me to “fight.” I told him he was the only reason I was still there and that I could not do it any longer. He looked at me and quietly said, “OK, mom” and never looked back. He has been completely supportive of me and our move. I am so grateful for his love and encouragement and his own personal sacrifices for our family.
So, to all my dear friends that are dealing with this situation now, the unexpected and forced life change is overwhelming. It feels like you have no choice and you are a victim. I promise that things will work out. It may not be easy, it may not be what you think you want….but it will be better in the long run.
May we all have the wisdom to see the doors that are open to us.
