As we approach the close of 2022 and 2023 looms large on the horizon, it affords us all the time to reflect on the past and look forward to a New Year and new possibilities. At this point in my life, I have come to realize that we never know where life takes us sometimes. Had you told me a couple of years ago, I’d be back in the industry where I got my start so many years ago, I wouldn’t have believed you.
My first job was helping my uncle around one of his shops after school and during breaks. At the time, they were one of the largest florists in the country with a chain of retail locations as well as a sprawling wholesale division. Eventually, I graduated to delivery and then they learned I had a knack for design, and I was trained and never looked back.
Graduating from college, I rejoined the firm and was given charge of the store, where I once swept floors and cut flowers. Time flew by with my first marriage, birth of my son and then ultimately a divorce rounded out the decade. Looking back-leaving was one of my biggest regrets. But a career in law, a new life with a new wife and additional children beckoned.
But that too came to an end-and I found myself at a crossroads looking back and remembering what were some of the happiest moments of my life. So, throwing caution to the wind-I’ve reentered the industry I love, and I may not be as big as my family’s once was, but maybe one day. I am, however, enjoying myself thoroughly and really what more can you ask to wake up every day not dreading going to work. So, I wish all of you the Happiest of New Years and best wishes for a prosperous and healthy 2023 because we could all use it after the last couple of years we’ve been through.
