I’ve been deeply touched by the outpouring of kind words, thoughts, and prayers as I navigate my options to support my family after an unexpected setback. Recently, my employment contract was unexpectedly terminated just before the holidays, a challenging time made more complex as my wife and I were seven months into building our new home. Despite these hurdles, we’re pressing forward with hope and resilience.
Many have expressed wishes that I could win the lottery, and some have even offered to share their winnings if they were so fortunate. They’ve seen the dedication we’ve poured into our home and the joy it brings our children. But here’s the truth I want to share: I’ve already won the lottery. There’s no need for concern. My wife and I have been overwhelmed by the love and support shared on our social media, filled with heartfelt messages and prayers since we shared our news.
A Sudden Setback
Let me provide some context. My position with the company I was working for was dissolved just before we were set to close on our new home, right as the holiday season approached. Although our savings were solid, signing the lender’s disclosure documents—knowing my primary source of income had changed since our approval in May—would have been dishonest and risked mortgage fraud. This created a significant obstacle to closing on our new home.
Thankfully, our lender showed remarkable empathy, working with us to find a solution rather than turning us away. Our builder, too, extended grace by allowing us to delay the closing date, giving me time to address my circumstances. This kindness is a reminder: I’ve already won the lottery. God always provides.
A Risk Worth Taking
Complicating matters, we had coordinated the sale of our current home to align with the purchase of our new one. When our home purchase hit a roadblock, we chose not to disrupt the buyers of our current home, who were just as excited as we were about our new build. Closing on the sale of our home was a risk, but it was the right thing to do. The buyers are now thrilled in their new space, and we’re happy for them.
This left us in a bind—we sold our home but had no new one to move into. Yet, in another stroke of grace, my in-laws opened their home to us, providing a temporary haven until we resolve our situation. Once again, I’ve won the lottery. God always provides.
A Furry Family Member
Life’s challenges often come with unexpected details. Our cat, Luke Skywalker, is like a sibling to our two children. We didn’t want to burden my in-laws with an extra pet during our stay, but finding a new home for Luke was a last resort. Without hesitation, my brother and his wife offered to foster Luke in their ideal setting until we’re settled. This act of kindness reinforces it: I’ve already won the lottery. God always provides.
Professional Support and New Opportunities
Beyond the incredible support from family and friends, my professional network has rallied around me. Since news of my setback spread, my inbox has been flooded with messages from former colleagues, partners, and business associates. While I haven’t yet determined my next move, several partners have expressed interest in collaborating directly, inspiring the “Solutions” section on my professional blog.
Though my current responsibilities with the home build limit my ability to dive into these opportunities fully, they’ve added value to the engagements I’m exploring and strengthened my professional ecosystem. I’m confident this chapter will soon be a distant memory. I’ve already won the lottery. God always provides.
The Real Lottery
You don’t need to visit a convenience store to play the lottery. It’s called life, and you’re a winner every day if you embrace the right perspective. The love, support, and opportunities that have emerged during this challenging time remind me daily of the blessings in my life.
I’ve already won the lottery. God always provides.