How Valuable Am I?

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3/12/2008

Tomorrow is a turning point for me. I have to admit I'm alittle nervous about the decision I've made, but I feel this decision is the right thing to do. After spending many days of the last two months being sick, I've finally decided to ask to be classified as a part-time employee. I think working less hours will not only give me a chance to slow down and not feel like I'm always pushing myself past my limits, but it'll also give me more time to care for my elderly parents whose health is steadily declining. So first thing tomorrow morning when I go into work, I'm requesting a meeting with the office administrator to discuss what options I have available to me. My decision might mean I'll have to seek employment elsewhere, but I'm hoping I'm considered a valuable asset to the company for which I work and they won't want to lose me altogether.

12:24 AM | Blog it | A Day In The Life Of Karen

Comments (18)

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	Greg Hyattwrote: Karen, I can appreciate what you wrote in here! I, too, had to take a change in my career path due to health reason's and so I could also spend more time with my family that needed me at home. Hopefully, your employer seen the value in you and kept you onboard, however, even if they decided to not too....then it was all according to God's perfect will for your life as he knows what is best for everyone and the current circumstances that they are having to face and deal with! I took care of my father prior to his passing and although it was one of the most difficult things I ever done in my life, I probably received more blessing's from that to know that I was a great factor in making sure his needs were met and that he knew beyond a shadow of a doubt the love and respect I had for him and for the wonderful upbringing that I was given by him and my mother! Both of my parent's are now gone to be with the Lord, however, I still have the wonderful memories of both and a great sense of satisfaction to know that I done all I could for them as they did for me while bringing me up in this world! Be blessed my friend! Apr. 20
	Joe Wakeleywrote: Just do it! May you success Mar. 26
	Wayward Billwrote: *Kitten,* *Oopsie, I gave you the same prezzie as before.* http://img383.imageshack.us/img383/6000/stpatsgreetingvo5.jpg Mar. 17
	J W Leighwrote: Was hoping to have heard from you by now, but I suppose with all going on in your life a never-seen friend is low on the priority list. Hope you post something soon about the part-time work and whether or not you were retained by the employer of your choice. Actually, I found out you were not the only person on my list of friends that mysteriously got removed. Having found out that my space had been hacked and entries made by someone pretending to be me was cause for me to call in some favors and put a rapid stop to the intruder. Even in retirement, my career still has some perks! Hope you find time to visit soon so we might mend the fence that lead to the misunderstanding. Your parents are fortunate to have raised a daughter with a big heart. The wife and I send you our best. *J.W.L.* Mar. 17
	Kenneth Razonville Montigue...wrote: I cared for my late parents in there old age and I know what it takes, I wish you all the streanth and wisdom you will need in order to make life a little better for them. Good luck. Mar. 15
	J W Leighwrote: Allow me to apologize for not realizing you have had several weeks of sickness to deal with...perhaps I should have looked for this on your space, but since I've had the flu recently myself, it is easy to understand why you have had to prioritize and alter the normal pattern of your life. I sincerely hope that working part-time works out to the benefit of both you and your parents. You have a heavy load to bear, and without any giving unnecessary detail, I can honestly tell you I've walked in your shoes regarding us becoming the caretaker of our aging parents. A role reversal that brings so very many mixed emotions of tears and memories. BTW, I'm a big fan of people who don't hide behind their insecurities. This man for the hills of east Tennessee sincerely desires you find the harmony to balance these uncertain times. From reading some of your space, I don't think you will any trouble with being strong and committed to whatever it takes to endure this life phase. If you have any questions of me...just ask and I will answer with truth. *J.W.L.* Mar. 14
	.wrote: I believe all will work out in your favor. There's no doubt. Perhaps this change will heal you faster too. Mar. 13
	Bruce Bradleywrote: I hope everything works out good for you at work. I am sure everyone will be glad to know if it worked out or not. I think it very sweet of you to take care of your parents. Once they have left we are the parents and all you have is your children when they are around. There is good side to everything if you look for it. One, I sure by now your daughter is married by now and gone away, and your parents can help that nurturing void I know you must feel. As far as your job, it good to never let money come between the final days you may have with your parents. If you were to continue working full time your patience with them would grow weary and you wouldn't want that to happen. Somehow, someway, things always work out for the good hearted. Beleive me you are good hearted so hold your head up and keep moving forward and everything will be fine. You will always be valuable to ones who love and need you. From reading your blog I would say that is a lot. Mar. 13
	orestes richardsonwrote: it is very nice of you to think about your parents that means that you will sacrifice for your parents that is something to aploud my dear,your parents are the only one that you have sowhy not spent time with them,because when they are not there you will regret it. So why not share beutifull moments with your parents and take good care of them eventualy something good have to come out of this and ask God for guidens but remember when you ask God for help just leave him do his work and just believe with all your heart and soul Mar. 12
	Karen Goggins Millerwrote: Thanks everyone for all the positive input. When I requested to be put on part-time status, I was immediately given the option of working 3 -12 hour days (Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday) so I could keep my full time status in order to keep all my benefits, but I'd still be able to spend more time at home with my parents as well...a truly win-win situation I think! Communication is essential to any good relationship. At work, you don't have to give everyone every detail of your personal life, but at least keeping your boss informed about things that might effect your attendence at work shows you take your job seriously. The past few years my boss has been aware of my parental role reversal and their declining health. She actually shows a real interest in my situation because I think this is something many adult children face. Grabbing pointers from others who have been there themselves comes in handy when it's your turn to step up to the plate. It's nice to have such a supportive employer and you never really know just how valued you are as an employee until there's a critical situation in which they can either help you achieve your goals or they can strictly play it by the book and do what they think is best for business. In this case, they did both and I deeply appreciate all the moral support I continually receive at work, in my private life and via my blog. Once again...a heartfelt thank you to all my fellow abnormally normal people who not only read my ramblings, but who have jumped in here and interact because birds of a feather flock together! Mar. 12
	JaAG Glasswrote: I've been toying with the idea of job-sharing as some in the large corporation that I work for are doing. So far, I've only seen women doing it. But I know some guys have done it too. The way it works for us is we each do 30 hours a week and with work-at-home Wednesdays that gives you two days at home not doing the commute slogge. 3/4th of a job still enables you to have full health and other benefits including 401 matching and the like. Still, sigh, it is a big step to even consider. Mar. 12
	scottishpeacewrote: Sending you a cyber {{{{{{hug}}}}}} Take care of yourself and know that you are in my thoughts! Mar. 12
	Wayward Billwrote: *Kitten,* *I hope that all went well for you today* http://img249.imageshack.us/img249/7721/leprechaun01cz2.gif Mar. 12
	Jacqueline M SeiWellwrote: Wishing you much luck with that. Your decision is based on a part of society right now and hopefully they are able to see that you needed to take care of your parents is a really wonderful thing you are willing to do. LJ Mar. 12
	Sageview Bloggerwrote: Dear Red Kitten, I hope all goes well. Take comfort in stepping out on faith that your goals will be met:) Peace, Love & Together Mar. 12
	Jayseywrote: Good luck! Mar. 12
	Laochwrote: Sending you positive vibes in your quest to be more balanced. Mar. 12
	Wayward Billwrote: *Kitten,* *Be tough girl.* *I'll include you in my bedtime meditation.* *Peace, Love, Hippie Stuff,* *Wayward Bill* Mar. 12

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