I believe it was Einstein who said "Insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting something different". Well, I never expected to be at the same job for 25 years, but I did it and it was, at times, insanity. Still, I am grateful.
Everyone knows where the 'blue box' comes from (Tiffany & Co.), and I was sure glad to get my box. It means that I earned my car, my house, and my yarn/fiber stash, and all of my lovely spinning wheels. It means I earned what I needed to get me where I am.
It also means that if I put my mind to a thing, I can stick it out in both good times and bad. It makes me appreciate more than I can say that I kept a job when lots of other folks did not. I am so grateful.
Yes, hard work pays off. So does dedication. And well, the recognition is icing on the cake.
