I grew up in central NJ. My dad commuted into "the city" for work, as did many of my friend's parents. And years later, many of my friends as well. I grew up driving up the turnpike, looking across the river at that skyline, knowing that there is where everything happens.
I got into work early that day 11 years ago. My first job out of college selling ads for a business magazine. I liked to get in early because receptionists didn't usually get in until 9am, so if I called before then the owner was mostly likely the person picking up the phone. Little tip for anyone out there selling ads right now :)
As it got closer to 9am, I remember one of the people at the other end of the phone acting strange when I asked to speak with the owner. She just said, "You should probably check the news right now. There's something going on." So I went out into the main office and sure enough the editor had just come out of his office to let everyone know what was going on. Instantly I thought of friends, neighbors, classmates. I was blessed to not have suffered any personal loss that day, but the whole experience changed me.
I couldn't stop thinking to myself, "How many people died that day going to a job they hate? How many had dreams of doing something else someday, when the time was right? How many perished doing the thing they were always meant to do?" These questions rattled around inside my head until one impulsive day few months later...I quit my job. I started plating desserts at night at the best restaurant that would hire me. The rest is a wild and weird ride to where I am today.
My intention of sharing this isn't to add to the day's sadness, but to offer a challenge. And please!!! By no means quit your job today! (or at least don't blame me!)
In honor of those who can't, maybe try something new today. Take a look at that list of "some days" and try one. Or, sit down and make a plan about how you're going to get that "some day" to happen. At the very least, be yourself.
