Transitions

Wow, life is changing fast. Ok, so it's not exactly MY life that's changing, but the changes that other people are making in their lives are impacting mine. Big time.

On Friday, my boss confirmed the rumors that he's accepted another job in another state. I've never posted about my boss because there's nothing to complain about. He's amazing. No, not perfect, but in the book of "World's Greatest Bosses", he's right there on page one. I have an incredible amount of respect for him as an interpreter, a colleague, a friend, a boss and as a human being. He will be sorely missed.

It's only been in the last couple of years, really since the 2005 San Antonio RID conference, that I've become closer to he and his wife. I think in San Antonio, he was really able to relax, more than in Chicago, and we got to know each other on a more personal level. Too bad it was so damn late. His absence will definitely leave a huge hole in the agency and community.

My concern, and it's shared with nearly everyone in the department is, what's going to happen next? Who will take his position and how will it impact us, the Deaf community, the department, agency, etc...? We're all pretty nervous. He's offered to help in the search and transition process, but he's only here for the next 7 weeks. We've been wracking our brains trying to think of who can fit into that position and so far, there's nobody in CT who can or would. I know ultimately it will take time and we'll have to wait and see, but in the meantime, yikes, it's scary.

The other major transition not actually happening to us is the moving of our good friends to Puerto Rico. It's their dream retirement and I'm thrilled for them, but wow, what a loss to the area. Rick and Nelly have been integral parts of the area community for over 35 years. They were both teachers, professionally and in their hearts. They are perfect examples of Ghandi's quote, "Be the change you wish to see in the world".

They are the kind of people that you wish you met when you were younger. You never quite had enough time with them, learning from them, appreciating the life they've shown you. I've known Rick for nearly 10 years, but it's only been the last 3 0r 4 that I've gotten to really know he and Nelly. Too damn late.

Nelly is a native Puerto Rican and now it's time for their lives to return to Puerto Rico. They bought acreage in a deeply forrested area of the island and are building an ecologically responsible, accessible home and guest house. Already they've been talking to area farmers who are complaining of being sick from all the chemicals and fertilizers. They're working towards educating them on organic/natural farming and hope to change their practices, ultimately making the island and surrounding ocean healthier.