Work-life... imbalance

Have you heard about this coronavirus pandemic (or 'COVID-19)? It's kind of crazy. Today I thought I had a job, then I didn't, and then I do again. For awhile. I mean... I don't know what I mean. Exactly.

The YMCA association I work for informed us yesterday that our branches would remain open, but pretty much all classes, lessons, and "extra" things would cease at least through the end of the month. Today, just before I was to get off work, the 1300 of us employees were sent an email informing us that all branches would be CLOSED, effective at the end of the day today, until at least April 13th. It was also re-emphasized that the 93% of staff who are part-time DO NOT receive any paid time off.

I actually understand. Personally, I thought we should have shut down sooner. However, I also understand the reasoning for trying to stay open: the Y is more than a "gym and swim." And, before I get back to reality, I am willing to give props to the leadership, who are attempting to keep as many people working as possible during this "shut down." They say they will make every effort to keep people working in "other areas" who most need the money. Some of these other areas are maintaining contact with members - especially those who heavily rely on the Y for social, physical and spiritual health. Some will be doing maintenance and "deep cleaning." Others may be put to use doing child-care for healthcare employees, or working with churches and other organizations serving meals and helping the community in other ways. This is quite commendable in my opinion.

As for me... well, when the announcement first came out, I figured I would be driving for Uber again. I actually re-activated my driving app last week in anticipation of this. While being out of work will definitely put our finances in a bit of a bind, I thought I would allow some of the other, more needy, employees to take hours, since I do have other means of making money.

So, after first being told by my boss's boss (because, oh, did I mention my boss is on vacation in Florida?) that I did not need to work tomorrow, she later asked if I could come in and work 9-4 for the remainder of the week (until my boss gets back from vacation). I guess I am supposed to answer the phone (which I anticipate will be ringing off the hook), as well be in the building since we have two other businesses in our space. The physical therapy office will still be open, so someone will need to be there to let therapy patients in, and keep everyone else out. That will be me! For three days anyway.

After this week... I really don't know. Honestly, I just don't know. I'm not sure anyone knows anything for sure. These are unprecedented times in the USA, and much of the world.

I suppose it's good that I do at least have options. At present, I could...

• Be a team player. This is what I am trying to do. I want to help wherever needed. I believe my skills/gifts have actually been utilized this week while my boss was gone, during a very chaotic time. I made some "executive" decisions on my own that I think helped out. And, honestly, I have both life and career skills that can be quite helpful in times like this (pastoring, coaching, administration, thinking 'outside the box', etc.). I think I could actually be quite useful to the Y (and community) at this time.
• Drive for Uber again. Ugh. As much as I hated it towards the end (I don't think I've done it for just about 2 years exactly), it is a nice fall-back option. Driving early mornings and during the day isn't so bad. Also, there is now the 'Uber Eats' option, which I've never done. So it's a possibility.
• Look for another job. I imagine one fear the Y has is that many of their part-time employees will not come back. While it has been great this week - needing depended on, and being a "contact person" - the thought of my boss being around during something like this just makes me want to puke. This would be a good time to "move on." 

So, ultimately, while everything seems so "up in the air"... I don't really feel too bad. Maybe I've been waiting for a time like this. Or... maybe it's just comforting that no one else knows what's going on for a change either.

I guess none of us knows what tomorrow holds. These are strange times. I should probably feel more anxious. But I don't.

Life is weird.