Wednesday, March 19, 2008

If Money Wasn't An Issue

A good friend recently asked what my dreams are, what I'd be doing with my life if money wasn't an issue, what I'd want my day job to be. To be honest, I haven't really thought about it. If money wasn't a factor, I suppose I'd travel a little more, perhaps pay a visit to that last continent on my list, do some missions work overseas, maybe take some courses to be able to work with kids better. But I don't think I can actually pinpoint a day job I'd want to have. It's hard to define something like that without ever having experienced it. The grass is always greener on the other side, and once we find ourselves working our "dream job," we may come to realize that it's not all we thought it to be.

With that being said, one occupation has left a deep impression in my heart - I have great admiration for those who work with handicapped or underdeveloped children. It's not an easy job, and one that can be very challenging and frustrating at times. My company partners with United Way to engage employees in volunteer work. Last summer, my department spent our "Day of Caring" (as we call it) at the Lakeview School, a facility dedicated to caring for children with disabilities. It was such a humbling experience being there, watching the staff interact with these kids in wheelchairs, showing their love for them, showering them with endless hugs and kisses, only to yield blank stares in response. I wouldn't be able to do that day in and day out. Maybe I'd be able to do it if I was built differently, but being the person I am, I think I'd end up feeling too defeated and too emotionally drained going home each day.

So I guess I really didn't answer the question about my dream day job, huh? Maybe one doesn't exist out there for me. Regardless, I think we should try to make the most out of the day jobs we do have. And if that doesn't work, then it's time to pursue other avenues.

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

i like this entry! :) i rem coming across a book once called "how to love the job you have" or something like that. but perhaps you are doing something that works for you already - fits your skillset, etc..and isn't too discouraging :) while still giving you opportunities to volunteer and take time out to travel. well, i saw how you were w/ the flower children this weekend and you are good w/ kids! tho i agree..it takes much more patience (than i have) to take care of disabled children.... i admire those who can.

Anonymous said...

hey here is a thought..what do you think your M would do if money wasn't an issue? hmm... i do rem you telling me that he's not happy at all in his current position...what would his ideal day job or career be?

Anonymous said...

sorry, i can't blog about m's ideal career... that's for him to share if he chooses to. if he does decide to pursue it though, i would be 100% supportive.