It’s painful when you fall. But it’s not the fall itself that hurts, it’s all the things you hit on the way down and the difficulty in getting back that causes the most pain.  Although I bounced by opening my little winery, my 2020 tumble from the corporate world still smarts a bit and there is one big reminder that’s a thorn in my side.  It’s my Mercedes Benz. 

When I purchased the car, it had 5,000 miles and was “certified pre-owned”, meaning it had a great warranty!  In fact, the warranty paid for engine work that was needed to stop the tapping noise I noticed within the first few weeks of driving the car.

I questioned keeping the car at that time, but the service guy told me that having the work done would be like having a brand-new engine.  Busy with day-to-day life, I took him at his word and kept the car.

Now, 100,000 miles later, I took it in for service because the engine light is glowing orange.  The service guy told me the car needs $6000 of work because the engine “isn’t wearing” correctly. 

Also, during the fall, I stopped my education for my Sommelier certification. I was too busy with my daily pacing and stressing and plotting my next course of action.  I paid for the first course which I almost completed, and paid for the second course which I never got to take because I didn’t finish the first. 

I sent the International Sommelier Guild an email today asking the status of my classes.  I am thrilled to say that I can resume them immediately!  Upon the completion of the second course, I will have a level 3 wine certification and that’s not too shabby!

After my great success with the email to the International Sommelier Guild and still feeling salty about the car, I am ready to write a letter to Mercedes Benz.  I don’t expect a resolution to the car issue, but just the act of writing the letter is apt to help me close this chapter.

It’s funny how empowered just one positive reaction and a glass of wine can make you feel.   

Peace and love,

Sharon 

“The years teach much which the days never knew.”
Ralph Waldo Emerson