I was working as an academic advisor and a communications specialist and while I was making an okay living, had great health benefits, worked with some cool colleagues, and was able to afford my essential needs and some wants, I felt broken, discontented, and discouraged inside. I dreaded going to work every day. And I was mentally and physically drained from the hostile work environment I was in. I also grew weary from working on new job applications and interviewing for different positions I wasn’t getting. It seemed like things were never going to change. Plus, with a global pandemic added to the mix, things only got worse before they got better. So, I endured and kept working, praying, and applying and interviewing for new jobs. And nothing was opening up.
At one point, I thought about bagging groceries at Food Lion. For real. It would have been a major change of scenery, and I’m certain I would have taken an enormous pay cut, but at the time, it was a move and sacrifice I was willing to make. I could wear a mask – hide my real facial expressions, help customers bag their groceries, and do it all in peace. I knew my days were numbered where I was, so I thought I can always work somewhere like Food Lion. I know that sounds like an odd option for an English major, but my mind went there. And then the unexpected happened.
I was contacted and interviewed for a teaching position I’d applied for mid-summer, and it wasn’t a position I thought I had a full chance at getting. Deep down, I knew I was reaching, but I also knew it was time for some changes. After I got through the final round of interviews, I was offered the position and accepted it. Then I found myself wondering, God, why did you open this door? I’m excited and thankful, but why this one? There have been some people who let me know how unqualified they think I am. I’ve heard the snippy and condescending comments about things like my lack of teaching experience, my age, and my race, but even with the noise, I’m working hard and walking by faith. God’s still revealing the why of it all to me, and I’m listening, learning, and paying attention. Each week is different and has its challenges and rewards, but I’m enjoying the work I get to do, and I desire to continue growing and succeeding in my role.