Relationships with coworkers can make or break your work day, and sometimes, even your overall enjoyment of the job. I’ve been lucky enough to work alongside some pretty great people, but none of them compare to my most recent co-supervisors.
Almost exactly a year ago, my work bestie and I welcomed a new girl to our tribe. We trained her how to do the job, answered questions as they came up, and provided her with resources to take the role and make it her own. We created a special bond with the newbie very quickly. Before we knew it, we were sharing personal stories and checking in with each other outside of working hours. It wasn’t long before we called ourselves the “trio.”
Because one of us lived in New Mexico, one in North Carolina, and me in Michigan, we’ve never actually met in person. Isn’t it weird how you can become so connected with people you’ve never seen in real life? The more I think about this, the crazier it sounds. But, it’s true. These girls not only make me excited to go to work every day, but they are two of my closest friends. We often dream about a girls weekend together, where we’d go to a country concert, have a cup of coffee together the next morning, and just simply enjoy each other’s company in person and not in a virtual Microsoft Teams Meeting.
On a Thursday afternoon in late January, she unexpectedly popped into a meeting with the three of us and I knew. I think my exact words were, “You’re as good as gone, aren’t you?” She grinned that sly grin she does when she’s about to deliver unfavorable news and it was confirmed. Although I’m feeling a little guilty of how I pounced on her announcement, it made me proud that she was off to pursue an opportunity that was 2 years in the making. All her work, energy, and effort paid off. She felt bad keeping this from us, but due to the nature of the job, she didn’t have a choice. I have truly never been so happy, excited, and eager for anyone to leave their current role (and our team) to chase their dreams. My OG sidekick and I couldn’t begrudge her if we tried.
I learned a lot from her in the 10 months we worked together. The most impactful moment was when she supported my daughter’s gymnastics fundraiser and ordered poinsettias. At first, it made me giggle. Although I don’t need much of an excuse to travel, I didn’t understand why she would do that since she lived many states away.
After she placed her order, she let me know that she’d like us to donate them to a local organization. We started to brainstorm together and came up with senior living facilities, schools, or doctor’s offices. With her permission, I decided to let Summer choose where we took them.
As I explained to Summer the basic principles of donating and giving to others, especially around the holidays, I let her know what my friend at work bought and the task before us. As I was brainstorming the usual places to donate Christmas greenery, Summer interrupted me and said, “Can I take it to the Children’s Hospital? My hospital?” Melt. My. Heart.
So, we picked up the plants and headed downtown Detroit. We had the most beautiful conversation about what the hospital means to our family and that we are so grateful for her doctors and nurses that take such great care of the kiddos there. We also chatted about how it feels good to give to others and we should do that whenever we can.
I cried on the way home from that hospital drop off. My heart was bursting with pride. My child took this moment and truly seized it. My friend provided this experience and touching memory for us. It was absolutely beautiful. And has totally inspired me and Summer.
We can always give back, big or small. I needed that reminder and what a special way to teach that lesson to Summer by doing something so nice, from so far away. I did thank my coworker and friend for supporting Summer and providing this unexpected experience that I will cherish.
She’s already off thriving in training and kicking butt in this next chapter of her life, but I just needed to let her know that she has a permanent cheerleader who resides in Michigan. I sure hope our paths cross again the future – maybe even at a country concert!
The Rupkey Roost 