"Don't come back, do not come back!" These words from a dear friend echoed in my mind today as I hung up the phone with a hiring manager from a world-class organization that I applied to 2 months ago who was very excited about me and my potential future with their organization. Given today’s economic environment and my current situation, why would a friend be so emphatic that I not return to the corporate workforce?
As I shared with him what I’ve been experiencing – it reminded him of his own journey with unemployment. He recalled the extended times of reading and reflecting, worshiping and serving in his church, and the unexplainable peace and contentment he felt during a time that for most would be a very anxious trial…very similar to my experiences now. He went on to say…"now, I’m working almost 7 days a week and I can barely seem to find time to spend with my wife and daughter."
The Apostle Paul urged his readers to “live a life worthy of the calling you have received”. So, what is a calling? Webster defines a calling as a strong inner impulse toward a particular course of action especially when accompanied by conviction of divine influence.
Regardless of your spiritual beliefs, everyone can agree we all have gifts or talents that can be used for the benefit of others. What about that strong inner impulse accompanied by conviction? When was the last time you felt time fly when working at something? Or when you were energized by giving or pouring yourself into something? Each of us has a calling – we are all here for a reason and were made for a specific purpose.
I know first-hand the need to pay the bills and provide for my family. But there has to be a way to follow the calling on our lives AND make ends meet! I find myself at a new cross-road...That job I was referring to? Likely the same pay as what I was making, but with 60-70% travel.
So, what’s more important: career-growth, apparent financial security, but with little time for my family, OR following what I am being called to pursue, flexible time with my family BUT uncertain finances?
Amazingly enough, this one is pretty easy for me. After discussing it with my husband, I will withdraw my name from the world-class organization and dedicate myself to having a life worthy of this calling I have received.
Think I'm crazy? A fool?
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You are not a fool! It's courageous to put family ahead of a job in these times, but well worth the investment. It will be exciting to see what God will do for you in the days ahead.
ReplyDeleteSusan
You're definetely NOT crazy. For people that don't understand it may seem foolish, but you made the right choice. God knows what is best for you and your family and He will never let you down.
ReplyDeleteLurdes