The word is out now...

I met with my boss yesterday, and it truly went well. I felt I was able to articulate the ways I think this trip will help me develop, what that would mean for the company, and that I believe I will be better prepared to handle anything that comes my way for following this dream. She was excited for me, and optimistic that perhaps a leave could be arranged, but I've since received word from HR that it'll likely work out that I resign when preparing to leave. I'll have a leg up on other applicants due to my history with the company, but they can't make any guarantees. Completely understandable, and honestly, what I expected.


So, I am disappointed that my plan couldn't be ideal... that I couldn't just leave and know that a spot is awaiting me... But isn't part of life recognizing that it changes? That we can't expect to leave, and come back different, and hope that everything else has remained the same... For all I know, I might receive more of a calling while on the road... Even though I doubt that I'll choose to live anywhere else, I certainly don't KNOW that no other place will appeal. It's just that home is where the heart is, and my heart is in Bellingham (and greater Western Washington at the very least).


I know in an earlier post I may have thought that it'd be a few years until I return to my company... But I truly love it. I like what it stands for, and the people who work here, and the services it provides to our community. I feel that in discovering everything that I am capable of, I could help it to succeed in its goals and dreams. Okay, that sounds sappy... But it's true. I will have to take time to learn though, and time to grow...

In a way, this is the post-graduation trip I never took. I didn't want to go and spend a ton of money at a point when I didn't know what I was doing, or how best to meet my needs and wants... and this ultimately (ideally?) will be cheaper than any long trip I'd have taken in the past. This pursuit of happiness (though I know that happiness is not something you chase, but more a by-product of doing other things) is something I'm REALLY looking forward to. I've still got a lot of prep, but it is so worth it.