For the past four years I've ridden this elevator. It's a cold, lonely ride, but sometimes I wish it would last forever. I dread these doors opening. The few silent moments I have alone in the elevator are precious, as I know that when these heavy doors open, my workday has begun. Thursday, March 8th will be the last time I ever ride this elevator. I did it, I really did it. I have resigned. Goodbye forever...I have loved hating you. This place, this cold, miserable place, has been the thorn in my side for the past 4 years.
I walk these empty halls alone tonight. Its Friday, the sun has set, and I log off my computer in my silent, windowless office. I've worked late tonight, tying up loose ends as I prepare to sever my ties permanently. I gather my things quickly so I can begin my weekend. But wait, what is this? Nostalgia hits me in the gut like I've never known. I walk the quiet halls turning off lights and locking doors. Could it be? No, no way...I hate this place. No, could it be? Is it possible that you will miss this place? Absolutely not! I despise everything about this place. I will never miss it. You're wrong, you will miss this place. You will be hurt when those elevator doors close for the last time. Could it be? Ugh, it may be. I backtrack, suddenly I am not in such a rush to leave tonight. I find myself walking much slower. I take a moment in each office. I have ghosts in this building. Every corner has a story. Every office a memory and conversation. I had my interview in this room. Oh, the chairs where Tinna and I have sat together every morning for years and shared coffee and stories...the Coffee Fellowship...conversations of dogs and friends, triathlon strategy, family, Jesus, the Democratic party, and Starbucks coffee cake that is so good that it makes us smile. The hallway where Mary Jo hugged me when my dog died, an embrace so sincere that my tears stained the collar of her shirt. The bathroom where Malcolm sat, oblivious to the fact there was a gas leak and the building was evacuated. The memories are endless...the ghosts everywhere. I board this cold elevator again tonight, for the first time sad to see the doors close.