Unfortunately, the bracing in the title of today’s post refers to readying for what looks like a rough ride ahead instead of the alternative meaning of refreshing. My job search has proved disastrous, and it’s hard to keep trying to convince myself that I should be grateful for the position I do have even though my employer clearly wants me out and is harassing and haranguing me in every possible way to make my departure a voluntary rather than enforced one. It’s even worse to be surrounded by people who, though well-meaning and intending to encourage, are driving my feelings…

Today has been another roller-coaster ride for my emotions, having started on a high and now falling into a deep trough. I’ve been keen for today for a few reasons, but mostly because on late Friday night I received an email asking me to apply for a job being offered with the prospect of long-term employment. I’ve been searching fruitlessly searching for a new job for years, and the offer seemed to be work within my capacity. But a closer look at the job description suggested that perhaps my abilities wouldn’t hold up, and then when it came to discussing…