“I want to work for you.” My exact words to the store manager in a Friday morning email, July 2021.

I felt drawn, nudged by some unseen friendly hand to reach out and reclaim my cozy workplace in a Vermont country store. I know where I fit. I know where I belong. I know where I thrive. I know what I love. I have always known, and this had called to me throughout the years, whispering, “Come back to your simple life.”

This, after so many career paths. All sustained me well. All suited me for a time. All thought me so much. Only but a few filled my cup.

What I found exceeds all expectations. I found growth. I found a safe place where I am ready and allowed to shed the behaviors and fears that had kept me shackled in a world of darkness, frowning and mistrust. I have crossed to other dimensions many times before but this time I take with me the willingness to do things differently. I have found the perfect home and family for this. My workplace is my playground and my fertile ground for growing up and joy.

I am grateful beyond words.