October Fest

I wanted to write something before October ends.

On the family side, mom and dad continues to recover from covid. Though slow and painstaking, it seems our efforts are now beginning to take its toll on the family, both from a financial and from an emotional perspective. As a family, or as a clan of my brothers and a sister, we have not been that physically close to each other since we all started our own families. However, with the effect of not being able to travel, we all had to find a way to connect virtually. Even that is taking a life of its own. What do I mean? Well, very much like the ‘cyber relationship’ is already in itself a formless, shapeless, heartless relationship that is far removed from reality. Yes, you can talk, yes you can ‘see each other on screen. And yes, you can even share all the nitty gritty details of ones life. But its just NOT the same when you see someone in the flesh. Being able to touch them, to see the sparkle, or dull light, on their eyes. To listen to their voice, the depth and breadth of the environment you are having a conversation, all of that somehow adds to the human experience.

On my work, well I have a new supervisor yet again. A product of my being stuck in the same role for the past 11 years! I have also prided myself as a loyal employee. Being able to turn the tide, jump as high, swim as far, and run as fast, as everyone else, and more. But this latest change somehow is different. I was given a boss that is in my assessment a product of high political game that is played at the very top level. We are mere pawns in the game of the generals so to speak. Which brings me to my next point – in life and in career, does having a mentor help one navigate these pitfalls, traps and barriers? Believe so. The thing is – I have none that I can approach. All of them have retired. I remember the saying, nobody goes up the ladder, you are to be ‘pulled up’. Very true in this instance. Hey no complaints on my part, just that I need again to adjust to the new way to being managed. Hopefully learn something or two on this new experience. After all, if one values his work, nobody can take that away from you.