Matt takes a new job when Uncle Sam comes calling

When I was a child, I saw a show on TV starring Kurt Russell (always awesome. I mean, have you seen Big Trouble in Little China?). He played this teenage secret agent. He was always pulling out these cool gadgets, and when his friend asked where he got it, he'd say, "My uncle gave it to me." The uncle was Uncle Sam.

Today I resigned after 12 years at USA TODAY. I love working there, but my uncle called and I came running. Granted, I asked the uncle for a job.

Here is a version of the note I sent a handful of friends:
 

I wanted to tell you in person, but I lack the powers of Jamie Madrox, Multiple Man (semi-obscure comic book reference in farewell note: Check). Plus, if I told you in person I might tear up. This would make Claren sad. In turn I would try to cheer up, but would invariably make awkward sobbing noises. So email is best.
 
I am taking a job in the communications office of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. My dad and a grandfather were lifelong civil servants and my uncle works with Fish and Wildlife now, so I am excited. I will be mostly working on an internal newsletter, writing speeches and stuff. They are also switching up their CMS so maybe I will stick my nose in there.
 
When I started here in '99, I quickly thought I might retire here. I enjoyed the job, but more than that the people were more awesome than I could imagine. Both of those things remain true today, but you are the reason I am still  here. And as happy as I am to take this new job, I'd be lying if I didn't say I'm scared, sad to leave and more than a little guilty for abandoning you. 
 
Short term, I think that's a huge plus for you. I feel so bad for leaving you, I'll do just about anything I am asked.  
 
Thank you all for making me a better thinker and a better journalist. Mostly, though, thank you for making me a better person.
 
Matt
 
PS -- And yes Claren is coming with me.
 
PPS -- my last day will be July 22. 

Making it even harder was that everyone was happy for me, and when I apologized for leaving, told me I have nothing to be sorry for. (Well except for the one friend who said she was mad because she had just finished her eye makeup.)

I am so nervous but excited, too. I know it'll be fun and challenging, and I know I'll be good.

I think of my grandfather's government service a lot. He got a presidential medal from Eisenhower. Dad worked for the Commerce Department his whole life. My real uncle is going to be on a panel with the Interior secretary. If I do half as well as any of them, I will be a success.