The incredible irony of opportunity

[JoyeAustin]

Like many other people around the country recently, my husband has been laid off his job. It happened last night. It wasn't a complete shock but it was unpleasant. His company had laid off all their interims, and now they are working through the permanent employees. Their orders (they make electronic wafer chips) have plummeted by thousands of units.

Now this could be a catastrophe. This is why many families have lost their homes. In fact, we did lose our home several years ago to job loss. But right now we have no mortgage so that isn't a concern.

But instead, this may actually be an incredible opportunity for my husband to return to college and finish his radiology degree. If he goes immediately into another job, he will not be able to devote the time he needs to complete his courses. He found out last night that his employer, by law, can pay his unemployment while he enrolls in school and finishes his degree, and the job search requirement will be waived.

That is so freaking exciting to us.

This may be his only chance to do it. It will mean an income loss for us, as we'd have to get by on what he qualifies for in unemployment. It will take some sacrifices and discipline. But the rewards will be huge. He would be able to work in the medical field nearly any place we live.

So if this happens to any of you, be aware that you may have that opportunity.

[mom0f3angels]

Nov. 16, 2008 at 1:20 PM

I'm glad that he can finally get his Radiology Tech Degree.

Isn't it funny how when life hands us nasty, sour lemmons, we can make sweet, sugary lemonade with them?!

[0Jenna0]

Nov. 16, 2008 at 1:22 PM

Good luck to your husband. I hope he goes through with it and goes to school!!

[kimberleee382]

Nov. 16, 2008 at 1:39 PM

Awesome!!

[Guinhyvar]

Nov. 16, 2008 at 1:42 PM

Joye, that is really good news :) I am so glad that it wound up NOT being a disaster. Weird how that happens sometimes, eh?

[arthistmom]

Nov. 16, 2008 at 1:58 PM

I'm sorry to hear about your husband's job loss but it sounds like a GREAT opportunity for him to finally get his degree. More power to him and good luck to you!

[briarraindancer]

Nov. 16, 2008 at 2:28 PM

We're looking at this as an opportunity as well. It means that I can go back to work for awhile, and Brett can take some timee off. It will be good for all of us, and I'm starting to get excited about the prospect of getting out of the house for awhile. =)

[briarraindancer]

Nov. 16, 2008 at 2:28 PM

Timee. Wow. Shoulda spellchecked.

[mars33me]

Nov. 16, 2008 at 4:07 PM

Boy I sure with I had known that three years ago when Wonder Bread eliminated my job... oh well... good for you and hubby.. it would be tough but I know your tough you'll get by!!!

[quietside]

Nov. 16, 2008 at 4:29 PM I'm so glad to read that his layoff is a blessing in disguise. Stay positive.

[briarraindancer]

Nov. 16, 2008 at 4:34 PM

Oh hey, me, me, me. =) I completely forgot to tell you that I thought the two of you are making the right choice. It will be hard, but in the long run, this makes things better for you.

Good luck!