It started with high level officials at my current job felt that I deserved a promotion. Sounds good right? Everyone can use a little extra money in this economy. Here is the hurdle, I would be required to relocate over 80 miles north. Yes, that meant uproot part of my family. My oldest son put it best when he said "you can't break up the band". My husband is not interested in moving and my sons are adults. In other words, relocate with my youngest children or find a small apartment for myself. I would try to squeeze in parenting skills over the phone and on weekends. This proposition was given to me on September 21st. This obstacle, coupled with the fact that all of my filmmaking resources are located in NYC was dizzying. The interview was scheduled for Monday, September 28th.
Tuesday, September 22nd, I received an email message from Craig Williams of Redwall Productions indicating "we need to talk". Huh? Is my film being shelved before it's filmed. It's another hurdle.
Wednesday & Thursday, September 23 & 24th - I struggled with the issue of relocating. Everyone can use more money. Do I want to move? What about my girls? What about my script for "Straight Face"? Why does Craig want to meet? What the ????? My intuition says go with your heart? Does that make sense or is it too hormonal? I asked my closest friends for their opinion on this dilemma. I got sound advice but no one said, "go with your heart".
Friday, September 25th, I opened an email from the Independent Film School. I was under the impression it was from my favorite instructor, Ela Thier, the proprietor. No, instead it was from Craig Williams, my producer, indicating for the first time ever, he was collaborating with the Independent Film School on a series of new classes which start in October. I screamed when I read this email message. It didn't matter that I was on New Jersey Transit and it was about 7:30 a.m. I desperately want to participate in anything that would enhance my skills in filmmaking. I know, I know, currently filmmaking does not pay any of my bills. Forget the promotion. Yes, I understand that if I did not accept the promotion there will be lots of management officials annoyed with me. I just want to stay in NYC with my boss that has a strong inclination to micromanage and harasses me. I just want to focus on filmmaking. It was precisely at that moment that I realized I could not handle another hurdle. (Hence, the scream) I immediately closed the email message and put away my iphone. Another hurdle was now set in obstacle course.
Here are the results of the race:
Monday, Sept. 28th - I went to the interview for the promotion. I think it went extremely well.
(I've overcome the first hurdle but I'm just warming up)
Tuesday, Sept. 29th - I did not return to work due to back spasms. (Do you think it was stress-related? I was obviously side-lined)
Wednesday, Sept. 30th - I returned to work and issued an email to the executive, the powers that be, as well as the interview panel members stating that I am removing myself from consideration for the promotion. (Whew, that was the biggest hurdle to overcome.)
Thursday, Oct. 1st (day)- My 2nd level supervisor (my the boss of my boss) came by my desk to indicate the "powers that be" were extremely disappointed with my decision. I smiled. I told him I fully understand but I needed to stay close to my family. (I saw that hurdle coming)
(evening) My daughter & I met with Craig, our producer. He loves the script but it needs more work. (I made it over another hurdle. I can see the finish line in the horizon.)
Friday, Oct. 2nd - I decided to enroll in the "Directing the Camera" class with the Independent Film School. I've also made arrangements to attend the Sundance Festival in January. (That was the final hurdle. I crossed the finish line and I'm exhilarated with the results.)
There is a saying "the road to success is filled with obstacles". If this is true, then I will be a phenominal success. I passed the test for endurance with flying colors. Interestingly enough, I actually feel like a better person as a result.
