Crossing The Threshold

Crossing the threshold to the past brings back memories of times sometimes worth reminiscing; other times worthy of erasure.  Today’s episode in the series that is Nikki takes me back two previous employers.  The environment was eerily quiet. That’s the byproduct of vacations and a boss who plays the seclusion game better than a Tibetan monk.

I pulled the ripcord after almost seven years, happy to extricate myself from a steadily declining environment that at times could be described as toxic.  What I left behind hasn’t changed much in terms of mood.  Many of the people departed for greener pastures.  Those hearty souls remaining from my tenure developed a thick outer shell to repulse the parasitic depletion of emotional energy and physical resources.

I consider myself fortunate to have landed well in a frenetic environment that is large enough to be significant yet small enough to be familial.  As I stepped into the office memories lapped against the shore of my consciousness.  I greeted the few hearty souls that occupied the premises during my stay.  They expressed happiness to see me; as I expressed joy to reunite if only for a brief respite from the hustle and bustle of life.

It’s impossible to completely disconnect from people, places and things that leave an indelible impression.  These are good people and they persevere despite the less than nurturing environment.  I learned yet again that memories are meant to be savored and when you touch someone emotionally those people never forget the good times even if they were few and far between.

I don’t miss the old place.  I do miss the people with whom I commiserated when things became unbearable.  Somehow we pulled each other through the mud slung by those jealous or incapable of acting like mature adults.  Yes we had our moments but we learned together and became numb to certain people who insisted on bringing 40 grit sandpaper to every meeting and used abrasive tactics attempting wear us down. 

Because this cadre of friends stayed long after I departed the scene, they proved stronger and more resourceful than yours truly.  The world needs resilient people who refuse to buckle under the pressure of ignorance, backstabbing and usurious actions.

Today I celebrate not only my hearty friends.  I also celebrate all of you who have the intestinal fortitude to endure and triumph.  I curtsy to you and hope I will adopt some of your strength.

Love and hugs, Nikki DiCaro