Success, Jim, but not as we know it.

In my mailbox today was a thick blue envelope, very similar to twenty-two others received since October.

I was afraid to open it. This envelope could signal the end of my life, figuratively speaking. It could contain news leading to bankruptcy, eviction, and an ever deepening spiral of depression. This, the day after I put the finishing touches on what I hope will be the start of my new life, a situation I have wanted for well over twenty years.

I tore the side of the envelope first, then sent a happy message to the internet. I sat down, steadied myself, and removed the three pieces of paper within.

The first one made my heart skip, until I recognized it as boilerplate, devoid of content.

The second was similarly jarring, but it too was a caution, not condemnation. I had seen it before, and in fact have exact copies of both here in the office.

The third allows me to pay my rent this month, buy groceries, and possibly enjoy time with friends in a social setting. Or two.

For I have been approved and confirmed as a recipient of Emergency Unemployment Compensation, which oddly enough will/would expire/be exhausted two weeks before my anniversary of exile.

I honestly do not know whether to laugh or cry. Instead, I will make food.

More later.

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