A Journey from Optimism to Wisdom

In the budding days of my 30th year, our Paul Allen software start-up began its descent into darkness. I recall that chilly conference room where after innumerable layoffs, the sword fell upon me, too. Five intense years of commitment, endless days, and countless nights had culminated in this very moment. My sparse desk was swiftly packed away, leaving me with an office chair, a memory of a barter over a six-pack of Redhook Rye.

In that once-upon-a-time, my life was filled with vibrant experiences and endless possibilities. I was on a promising trajectory with connections to the tech luminaries of Seattle. I had the privilege of learning from the best, who showered their wisdom upon me. They taught me the art of negotiation, the subtleties of business, and the importance of giving.

However, as the company’s curtains drew to a close, I made a choice. Instead of diving right back into another grind, I sought experiences beyond dev cycles and quarterly valuations.? I leaned in hard to mindful growth and becoming myself. My days were filled with exhilarating pursuits, from twice a day tennis matches against opponents well above my ranking, to teaching myself how to play original tunes on my guitar, to taking therapeutic nighttime drives around the serene Lake Washington reveling in the lights and reflections that rose from the city I adored. From seeking divine apparitions in tortillas in the southwest to falling in and out of love along the west coast, I was on a true sabbatical and loving every moment of it.

If 30 years can be a lifetime, that’s how long it’s been.? This second corporate setback, decades later, wasn’t a youthful intermission but a reckoning. Now, with pressing responsibilities and financial commitments, the landscape of joblessness was barren and foreboding. Age, though a reservoir of wisdom, became a seemingly insurmountable hurdle.

In this contemporary tech realm, I am amidst a whirlwind of innovation. The fascinating reality of decentralized AI, the metaverse, humanoid robots, and blockchain beckon me. A start up once more seemed thrilling and perfect in its timing. The lure of intellectual riches is potent, yet the harsh reality of bills and responsibilities nags incessantly. The once-invigorating playground now feels like quicksand, pulling me deeper into the void.?

But even in despair, there's a glimmer of hope. Every ignored application, every unanswered call, and every silent rejection is a lesson. I've learned to find solace even in the smallest acknowledgments. These trying times have etched an important learning opportunity: the system is flawed. The very essence of job-seeking needs a human touch, an acknowledgment. When I am once more employed, I will see to it that every job seeker whose cover letter and resume lands on my inbox will receive a note of thanks with a line or two of encouragement.? No organization is too big to forget there are real people behind each, “Dear hiring manager.”

Time itself has taught me two contrasting lessons. In your vibrant 30s, if destiny grants you a pause, grasp it. Seek the unknown, challenge your norms, and find yourself. And if life pushes you to the brink in your 60s, remember, you're not alone. I stand with you, extending a hand, sharing a story, and if fate allows, perhaps even a job lead.

For those reading this far, I ask for empathy and a glance at my LinkedIn profile. For those who've tread this path before, your wisdom is my guiding light. And for the world out there, remember, every ignored application is a story waiting to be told. My goal is to rewrite this narrative, together. C'mon universe, let's get back to work.

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