The Email that Ended Everything

I had closed work on a Thursday with the hope of working the next day to end the week as it has always been for the past 14 years. I never knew that something that would change my life was about to happen.

On that Friday morning, I walked into the office exchanged pleasantries and sat at my desk for the day's work. Usually, I open my email first to check and respond to any message that I need to.

I clicked it absentmindedly, expecting the usual messages but what greeted me first was an email that was sent on Thursday night that says:

"Due to recent restructuring, your services are no longer required." The disengagement was effective that Friday.

My body went cold, I stiffened, and tears built up. I struggled to comport myself. No call. No meeting. Just about eight-line email to end 14 years of loyalty, late nights, and weekends logged in.

I sat in stunned silence. Just a quiet deletion from the system. I slowly closed the laptop and stared ahead, wondering what came next. I started packing my things.

There were other colleagues that were affected. We all spoke and later the Head invited us to his office. There were other staff there and they all empathised with us.

This was how a simple email ended everything for me. I never knew things can go south like this within a twinkle of an eye. There was no wrongdoings. I have never been queried. I have received commendations. A change of management that changed my life.

It is over a year now and I yet to be gainfully employed. It has not been easy but I am grateful to God that I have been able to survive the storm. I am optimistic and look forward to better opportunities.