The layoff....

...occurred today.

While I've known for the better part of the last year that, in the event that my company needed to downsize, my position would likely be the first to go admittingly I was starting to gather hope that things were looking up and that this possibility wouldn't become a reality.  Sadly I was wrong.

My (now former) company is being relatively generous.  They've offered to pay me along with providing benefits through this month.  My accrued vacation time will be paid out in addition to this time.  I'll be eligible for unemployment starting August 1st after my last "official day" with the company.  My boss thanked me prior to leaving today for being so gracious about being laid off.  All in all, I am lucky that, despite being laid off, I was able to leave on a positive note with my head held high and a reference in both my boss as well as the executive chairman of the board.

That being said I would prefer to have a job.  I know that this is a sign of the times and that many people are in the same situation for similar reasons.  I also know that, with my experience and given time, I'll find a new job.  I'm fortunate to have a safety net both in my savings account and among my family and friends to catch me.

But still...I would prefer to have a job.  As a single woman with a mortgage to pay, the concept of being unemployed is a less than stellar prospect.  As a single woman who doesn't have the income and medical benefits of a spouse or boyfriend to rely on I know that it's all on me to find something new, preferably sooner rather than later.  As a single woman trying to date, I know that being unemployed isn't exactly the most attractive feature.

I need to remember that I'm a strong woman who will overcome this layoff and will be better off in the long run.  I need to remember that everything happens for a reason and that, while uncertain now, I'll look back and realize that this may be the best thing that could have happened.