Forever Paisley

Dear Corporate America,

It’s been nearly seven years since you initially approached me.  At first, I held strong.  I was honest.  Despite the promises that you made, I knew that our relationship would never work.  Our inconsistent values.  Our long-term goals.  Nothing lined up, though it was clear that you weren’t going to back down.  It was then that you flew me to Seattle, tempted me with opportunities and showered me with gifts.  Surrounded by mountains, the Puget Sound and a music scene that could kick anyone’s ass, you caught me off guard.  Just a few days later I was returning to Michigan aboard a Boeing 747 with a Microsoft Timbuk2 bag under my seat and an offer packet on my lap.  I’m not easily courted, but in the end you won.

From that day on our love/hate relationship began.  We traveled the world together.  You taught me many valuable lessons.  You introduced me to many incredibly talented, strong-willed individuals.  Despite what I’ve gained, despite my attempts to alter my perspective, I continued to struggle.  I told you that I needed more from you.  I begged for you to change your bureaucratic ways.  I threatened to leave you for more fulfilling opportunities abroad.  Through all of the challenges, I’ve spent the last six years of my life committed to you.  Six years and here I am, left without the will to fight.  Dear Corporate America, I’m writing to say that this is the end.

As I walk away from this I’ll never discount what I’ve learned from you. I’ll always appreciate your elaborate attempts to keep me around, even up until the very end.  I’ll never forget the launch parties, the times we had in South America or those moments where we actually got a long.  In the end, I just want to be inspired. In the end, I’ve got to act on these feelings that I’ve had for so long.  In the end, it doesn’t matter how much you value me, because the only thing that matters is how much I value myself.  It’s time for you to take back your golden handcuffs.  It’s time for me to say goodbye.  It’s been a wild ride my friend.  I wish you all the best.

P.S.  Please don’t call.  Please don’t send gifts.