H minus 48 hours and counting...

Well in about 48 hours, I hope to have completed my first, first-day on the job in 25 years.

I may have gotten here by a series of unfortunate events and bad decisions, but it is a new start.  Whether I like it or hate it, Monday will signify a new start for me. 

I must admit it’s a bit scary...maybe more than a bit.  I spent a good deal of time this week focusing on irrelevant propositions.  Now it’s time to think about the task at hand.  I need to be an outstanding Honeywell employee.  I have been around long enough to see many, many new employees.  From that experience I will attempt to do the following.

1.       Listen

2.       Ask “How can I help?” or “what can I do?”

3.       Follow my instincts

4.       Be positive

5.       Stay in the moment.  Don’t think about 10 years ago…or 10 years from now.

6.       Be enjoyable and enjoy.

The trials of the last year have been been….well everything.  It’s time to let go.  It’s time to look up and look forward.  I admit, I’m still struggling with a little victim mentality.  I just can’t seem shake it.  I think it’s me mourning the loss of a 25 year career.  NASA was near the center of my life for more than half of my life.  I lost it suddenly and against my will.  I’ve been too focused on finding employment to mourn that loss.  I will get past it and hopefully, Monday will help .

I’m trying to focus on what I would tell my boys about this when they are grown men…perhaps when they have had a setback and are struggling with what to do next.  I want my story to be, “it was a very tough time for me, but I kept my faith.  I got down, but I didn’t stay down.   I gave into God’s plan for me and with the help of a lot of really good people made a negative a positive.  I’m a better man for it.