So today we got the news that our store was closing and after 25 years of dedicated service, I will become one of the thousands of unemployed. You may have read some of my diaries on being a liberal stuck in the conservative, republican south. But today I am not writing about politics. Today I am writing to tell you about my journey over the last 25 years and how it ended so suddenly. I started working at Waldenbooks the summer I graduated high school. It was part time and great for a college student. I have always loved to read so what was better than getting paid to sell my favorite books to other people? Flash forward 25 great years and here we are. So we get a call that some stores are closing and we will know today. Follow me over the break to see my heart break in a million pieces.
We were sure we would be saved. Out of 29 stores in our district, we are one of 3 that are still making our sales goal. We are in a very small town where the next nearest bookstore is 55 miles away. We have 2 colleges in our town. There are many stores 20 and 30% down and not making a profit. We felt sure when we called, our store would be one of the stores to remain open. And of course they had to drag it out. First a call from the vp letting everyone know how hard the decision was and how important we all were and how they appreciated our service. Then another call to see if you were on the list. Color me shocked when they called my store out as a closing store! I am sure there was nervous laughter when I asked if I was on the right call. And then I had to call my staff and tell them. All my girls were crying. Because you see, we are not just a place of employment, we have become a family! And it's like a death in the family. In 8-12 weeks we won't be seeing each other every day. Who will we tell our funny stories to? Who will we go to for advice? These girls are like my children. How can I cope with losing my job and 5 children at the same time? We all agree, we don't give a damn about losing a paycheck (we'll admit to that later) but we are losing our center, our thing that holds us together, our everything. For most of us, this was the job we always wanted and it lived up to every standard we set. And now we have lost our anchor and we are all just floating at sea with no direction. And I swear if I hear one more word about God and his plan or windows opening while doors close I am going to scream. I know you mean well but I am mourning a loss and I need you to just shut up for a minute. I know I will be okay and we will all survive but for now, this day sucks! Thanks for listening!
