The Grass is Greener

It’s amazing how much we all want to be someone else.

Whether it’s somebody with a better job. Somebody with a nicer house. Somebody with a better looking mate.

The grass is truly greener on the other side, right?

This week, while I was searching for a job, I spoke with three different friends all searching for their happy ending.

There is my friend who took a “dream-job” a year ago that has turned into a nightmare. Everything it was supposed to be, it is not.

Micromanaged to the paper-clip.

My phone said that I spoke to my friend for 64 minutes and 26 seconds. Hearing the pain in his voice made it seem like a lot longer.

And let me tell you, this is a VERY accomplished person, who has succeeded in every job he has had.

But now, for the first time in his life, his career is a job.

Friend #2 is somebody who several years ago decided to pursue a graduate degree to take on a job that would help her husband and kids live a great life.

Well, that great life is being lived... without my friend.

These days, she is working more than my keyboard.

Sure, there’s the professional reward of moving up in her company and I’m sure the money is good, but its a big price to pay for missing dinner with the family EVERY night.

I know, I’ve been there.

Moments ago, I just got off the phone with one of my best friends, somebody who has been my voice of reason every step of my employment and unemployment.

He is as grounded as any appliance in my house.

For the last 25 years, he has been with the same company, earning awards, praise and more friends than a lottery winner.

He is also socially active, dating a different woman every week.

That may sound like fun to you and me, but it’s not to him.

He has tried internet dating, being set up by friends, giving his number to strangers, but so far he has not found his match.

I have no doubt that he will, like he has no doubt I will find a job.

The view can sunny from the other side, but whether its a dream-job, lots of money or the freedom of being single, be careful what you wish for.


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