Wednesday, January 14, 2009

Optimistic

PM: 10 Miles, 63:50, Blvd

I had a whole other level of emotion on my run tonight. It was very cold and icy but I needed to stay outside and get through this training. My emotion was out of balance because today I lost my job. It is so interesting to me. You hear of economic downturns and people getting laid off but you never really believe its going to happen to you. Furthermore you hear about the security guards and the escort to the front door but you never think it actually happens. Well it does. I experienced it, although I avoided the escort!

Reebok has been my life for over 2.5 years and I loved it. Naturally it had its tough times but I believe in the brand and the guys I worked with were the best. They will always be friends, and some will be very close friends for life. The Adidas group made a decision about what direction the Reebok brand would be taking and having specialty reps was not part of that plan. Most accounts found it odd that we competed head to head with Adidas for sales anyway, so they understand.

So now I am unemployed and very confused. Today I woke up as a Reebok rep ready for the good fight and tonight I go to bed as Kelrock, looking for a job. I can wear other shoes now (although truthfully I will stick to my Road Plus VI) and other racing flats. I can stick on some of my old New Balance pieces without feeling guilty. Its all a bit strange. Anyway, I don't want to go on about it. I will land on my feet, hopefully.

I am posting a youtube video that tells me everything will be alright. I still have health, music, running and most of all friends in the form of family, mates and Frankie.

Peace and Love,

Kel

8 comments:

  1. I've been reading your story for a while now. Jay Romasco is a good friend.

    It's terrible to lose a job, especially one you liked and were good at. Have faith that good things will happen.

    And keep writing and running.

    Mike Donohue

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  2. Keith,

    Talked to Sean earlier tonight and was just floored by the news. Let's try and catch up soon, perhaps even go for a run. Hang in there mate.

    Mario

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  3. Head up boss. We both know how this industry is and while i feel bad for you im not worried because of all the contacts you have made and how highly you are thought of. You'll come out good on the other side soon enough.

    Stay the course.

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  4. Very sorry to hear about that Keith, but way to keep your head up about it. Sometimes the best type of change comes when we least expect it, but you must be optimistic to take advantage of new opportunities. Good luck with those in the coming weeks and months!

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  5. I'm here for you buddy. I'll do what I can to help you land on your feet.
    You are one of the best out there at doing what you did. Good things will come.

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  6. holy shit kieth, i am sorry to hear the news brother.....i know what u r going through, lost my job in october. fight the good fight my man, things always have a silver lining!!! come for a visit if u can to get away for awhile. Even consider some schooling??..thats where i am going. runnning makes u tuff kieth, to get through anything...keep your nose to the grinder.

    jmac

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  7. That must have been an awful shock, Keith; very sorry to hear. So thankful I stumbled across your blog, and thankful for all that you share. You're a good guy - you'll do just fine.

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  8. Keith- I use your blog to help me get off the couch and get some miles in here in Wexford. Keep up the good fight, your running is turning the corner again and saw in the Indo you'll be here for the Great Ireland Run. Stay strong, much good will come from this.

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