I feel so bad for the many people who were so loyal to VZW for years...relocating when asked...working long hours...missing family events...dealing with the politics and the stress. Not all corporate cultures are like that - look for strong companies that value you. It will all work out in the end.
I hear from employees who are left and they are miserable. Their workload has doubled...those in management have so many direct reports they feel ineffective. The morale is low and there's no trust. It's so toxic, so many wish they would have gotten a package. They want to leave but can't afford to leave without a package. I'm sure the next employee opinion survey will be a doozy.
You can now chart your own course. Just keep networking - hopefully you will find a better opportunity. Remember mind over matter, so stay positive and learn the lesson. Never give your life or identity to one company. It's a place of work - nothing is promised. It's not the be all, but a journey. You're paid for a service and when the service is no longer needed, you may be let go. It's not a marriage - it's never till death do us part. It's a relationship premised on an exchange of services. Get that - move on and never ever expect any company to be your everything. While looking for another job, also look for ways to use the bonus, vacation, severance to start other streams of passive income.
For me, it's a good thing. I get to pivot to find more happiness. I use to dread going to work. I'm relieved that I never have to deal with that toxic enviornment ever again. Best of luck to everyone!!