Tuesday, January 29, 2013

Stay the Course...

Earlier today, I had a conversation with a friend.  It was one of those conversations that makes you feel a little older afterwards.  You find yourself saying soothing words of comfort and realize partway through that you're not just saying them to the other party, but to yourself as well.

Over the weekend, she closed the doors to her shop... permanently.  She said that she felt liberated and free... but I could tell she was sad.

In the past few months, I've had too many of these conversations.  Too many good people have lost their livelihoods.  Each time I hear about another small business folding (particularly one like our's), a chill runs down my spine.  Are we next?

I have to push the thought out of my head.  I have to focus on gratitude.  It's easy to get sucked down in a pit of worry and despair, especially this time of year.  The skies become a soupy grey mess and the sun plays (extended) hide-and-seek.  I know that we're fortunate for all the support we have.  It humbles me.  Each kind word, friendly face, and purchase (no matter how small)... all go towards making the dream a reality.  It's this support that fashions a shield against the dark.  I know that we must be dauntless and stay the course.

4 comments:

Regina said...

Be strong!

Andrew Thornton said...

Thanks! We'll keep plugging along and trying to focus on the positive.

BluMoon said...

I can really understand this my sales have stopped also, but now I make for the pure pleasure and have had to move on.I am sure things will turn the corner and there is a brighter future even if we can't see it right this minute.
All the best
Jackie

Andrew Thornton said...

Jackie, it can be a scary world out there... especially when talking about business... but I wholeheartedly agree that you have to do it for love above all else and things will find a way.

Even though we're doing okay, I still get a twinge of worry when I hear about other businesses like my own closing. The owners are all talented, dedicated people. What was it that caused them to fold? Could it happen to us? I think when you love something so much and you put so much of your heart into it, the fear comes from losing it.