Wednesday, April 8, 2009

Tender Mercies

I got laid off last week. In the moment, I was sad, confused, and felt a little lost. I had worked at that job since my college graduation in 2004. It had become a part of who I was. I felt I was good at it and that I really worked hard to make my contribution to the company. But, no one can foresee hard times and it's hard to gracefully deal with this when you are an owner of a small business. Except my boss' did deal with me gracefully and as soon as the shock left me, I felt this sense of relief. When I got pregnant with Brady, Nick and I both felt like me staying home couldn't possibly be an option. Because of all my medical problems, I NEED to have good insurance to pay for my ever consuming medical costs. I had come to terms with that decision and even had a sweet feeling in my heart telling me that everything would be fine - the Lord would provide a way for me to be a great mom and a great employee. Well, my employers were very honest with me about the condition of the company and they, at first, cut my hours - allowing me to keep my insurance. Then about two weeks later I get the call that they need me to come in. Brady was sick so I told my boss that I wouldn't be able to do so. I could tell in his voice that this was the call I thought I was dreading. I was being laid off. After hanging up, I had a good cry. I called my husband and my mom and they both reassured me that all would be well. Nick came home with roses and a card and told me that when I told him, he just felt relieved. It seems the big decision, letting me be a stay at home mom, was made for us. It was one we felt we couldn't make on our own - that we would be financially irresponsible to quit a good job with benefits knowing we were heading into a master's program. So the next day I woke up feeling so happy and also relieved. It seems that the Lord provided again for my family. Nick and I did our part by being frugal and saving, saving, saving for years and now the Lord had filled in where we couldn't by bringing us both peace of mind. How can I deny my Savior? How could I ever deny that He is with me and loves me. Being home with Brady is just one of the MANY tender mercies bestowed upon me - and I am grateful.

10 comments:

Brian said...

I admire your perspective and faith. You guys will be just fine.

Bloom Family said...

Oh Amanda, the greatest emotion I have right now is happiness. Hard when the thing you are telling is that you got laid off. But, I saw how sad you were to have to be returning to work, and I am grateful that you get to be with your little Brady full-time! You're absolutely right, the Lord will provide, and I admire your faith.

Aaron and Melissa said...

Wow! You are one amazing person...which I have always known! You guys will be just fine. Things always work out when you have faith! I can't believe how we have been so blessed through all of Aaron's school years. I know you guys will be too!

Lis said...

Isn't it interesting how some of the greatest blessings come from trials. You will infinitely be blessed by staying home with Brady! I'm excited for you!

Clark and Liesel said...

Wow. What an amazing person you are- well you both are. Its amazing how the Lord works- sometimes things are a blessing in disguise. I am glad you get to be home with your little Brady now all the time. Hooray! I am happy that you are so happy! :)

Unknown said...

Oh, Amanda. It is so hard seeing these things happening. I KNOW that you were great at your job, and everyone will miss you. I am happy that you can stay home with your little boy. You will feel crazy at times, but with His help, as you have felt, things will be fine.

Natalie said...

I'm sorry things had to happen this way, but I'm so glad you feel good about it. I bet Brady's pretty happy about it too. We'll have to get together often!

Jared and Patricia said...

Amanda, we send our love and gratitude for your faithful and fearless example. Both Brady and Nick must be so grateful to have a wonderful wife and mother, like you. Your positive/eternal perspective rubs off on everyone :) Love you!

Nicole said...

The Lord is always there, Amanda. Darrel and I marvel at how we have been able to survive school and the welcoming of five children through all of this. We do wonder what our financial future holds through graduate school but, it is true, you cannot deny the tender mercies of the Lord and as we exercise faith, do ALL that we can, he acknowledges our efforts and takes us into his loving arms. You are encircled in those arms as well. You will be blessed beyond measure for staying home with Brady... it's the Lord work!

Threegirlsandalittleman said...

Its crazy to say that things happen in the most blessed ways, But in the end the lord kows what is best for you and your family. Everything will work out beautifully!