I have to say - when I first started reading I thought it was good for a 'suit' to find out how the rest of us live and I didn't want to hear you feel sorry about yourself. Im a working man and 'suits' like you are people I don't always trust. But after I finished your story I can see you have been through a hard time and you have learned a lot and take it well. You even changed your name. So now I say: good for you and keep it up. Life as a trashman isn't bad and you should even have a pension too!
Sep 11, 2009 Rating
Shook Me to The Core by: Romy Macias
Roger or "Jimbo",
Your story shook me to the core. I tried to put myself in your situation and found it extremely hard, simply thinking about it.
From your account, you seem to be facing it with grace and dignity and that speaks highly of your character. I admire your fortitude and courage.
Thanks for sharing your experience and please let us know how you continue to move forward with your life.
-Romy
Jul 26, 2009 Rating
Thank You For Reading by: Jimbo the Author
Gavin
Thanks for taking the time to comment on my article. It helped to write this out for the first time. It was a powerful experience. The purging and breaking process has been going on for a while now. It helped to write it.
You mention the real self. I think I'm starting to understand what that is. It's a slow process. But I'm working on it.
Yesterday I ran into a former client of mine on my rounds. He couldn't believe it was me. He literally didn't recognize me without all the former fancy and expensive trappings - the suit, the tie, the shoes, the car and even the hair all gone - and with the addition of the dirt and the beard and the extra pounds and the coveralls!
He was stunned and not impressed. To him I was just an image that no longer exists. But I'm learning to live without all those old symbols. I admit that only the symbol of the pinstriped suit still has a hold on me. I don't know why! But it does.
I don't really know yet who the real self is, but at least I'm on my way. And my wife and children have supported me all the way. I couldn't ask for more in that way.
Well, I won't take up more time! Thanks for reading and for this great site.
Jimbo
Jul 24, 2009 Rating
Money Flows From Happiness And Personal Integrity by: Gavin
Jimbo, THANK YOU so much for your inspiring contribution - and as the very first visitor-contribution in this section on Money and Happiness! What a great start!
If, in your life travels, you should feel that any occupation your're involved in - be it corporate executive, garbageman, or whatever - does not really reflect the real YOU at that time, then I wish you well in finding the perfect occupation for your and your family's needs - at the right time and in the right place.
Your story is both thought-provoking and an inspiration to me and I'm sure to other visitors to this site too. Again, thank you for taking the time to share your story.
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