JTT, As others have said, things like this can turn into a positive situation (although it is not easy to go through). Many years ago a friend of mine was working at a company where I used to work, and he received a permanent layoff after 10+ years with the company. Then he got a better job at another company that paid more, and he was much happier – I hope something like this happens for you. Best wishes for a healthy, happy and prosperous new year!