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Saturday, January 18, 2014

Embracing This Season

Last fall I considered going back to work. I have to admit there wasn't a lot of thought process involved in the decision or much time spent in prayer, it was a more of a reactionary response to some events we were experiencing. (never a good thing)

 I went online, found a position that looked promising, put my application in and forgot about it. Fast forward four weeks later... I was called for an interview.... again without thinking.. OR praying about it. I agreed to the interview and a week later  I was offered the position and accepted it.

I now had a job but no peace....none. It seemed like the perfect position, the hours were flexible, and the compensation was good, but had I really considered all that would change at home? Had I considered the physical challenges? Had I really counted the cost of me going back to work?

The truth was I had enjoyed being home and it has been good for me physically. Last year was kind of a recovery year for me, so it was easy to justify not looking for employment after I lost my job but, I have been feeling so much better, wouldn't I be more of a help bringing in some extra income instead of staying home?

Now, I was praying about it, (better late than never) I was thinking about what I do at home, and what things would invariably change if I went back to work. The first thing I realized was that I needed an attitude change, there was still a part of me deep down inside that believed being a nurse was more valuable than being a homemaker, especially now that my children are grown.

This is familiar territory, I have been around this mountain before. When I first stopped working I made a list of how my time could be used now that I was home

  • I can work my schedule around my husbands needs
  • More available for grandchildren, I can go to events and be available to assist in care
  • More available for Sister-In-Law's care, and many in the facility could use an encouraging word
  • I'm friends with several young moms without moms locally
  • More opportunities for hospitality
  • Learning new things
I eventually declined the position I was offered a week after I had accepted it (before I technically started) I realized that what I was doing at home right now had more lasting value than what little income I could bring in. Is this permanent? I really don't know...life continues to change and there may yet be a time when I will find myself back out in the work force, but for now I am going to embrace this season of mine.








12 comments:

NanaNor's said...

Dear Maryann, What a lesson you've learned; I never enjoyed working outside the home-that is just me. I'm glad you declined and should there be a next time, you will take time to pray and really think on whether to make a move. Those activities that take up your time now are much more valuable than a outside job.
Well done.
Noreen

Lea @ CiCis Corner said...

Well, good for you Mary Ann. Sometimes the choices life offers can be confusing and I'm glad that you feel a peace about your choice. And, I'm sure if things change in the future you will know and have peace about that too. Happy weekend!

Debbie said...

If I am being honest this is a subject that I wrestle with every once in a while too. I think sometimes it would be nice to take some of the financial burden off of my hubby, no matter how slight it might be. I though, unlike you, have no skills and anything I would make really would be minimal. I have always been a stay at home mom/housewife. But I do sometimes feel a little guilty. But after praying about it I always come back to the same conclusion and that is that I am where HE wants me to be. There are some real benefits (which you mentioned) as well, so I try to focus there. My hubby NEVER seems to be in favor or it either, another important consideration. Sooo all this to say, I am glad you prayed about it, glad you are at peace about it, and glad your mind is still open to what the future might hold. Hope you enjoy your week-end!

Janettessage.blogspot.com said...

I am fighting the opposite. I am fighting having to work and how much my family is hurt by me being gone. However, this is the season God has me in and somewhere in this season I need to change my attitude.
I am glad you are enjoying the benefits as God shows you what He has for you in this season.

Stephanie said...

Thank you for this lesson, Maryann. Not only did you learn something, you have taught me as well :) Being right where God wants you is truly the best place of all. Hugs and blessings to you!

Kathleen said...

Oh man ... do I ever recognize the transition from employment to at home worker. I retired in 2010, and for nearly 2 years I felt something was missing in my life. It was. I loved work ~ the team aspects of it, the challenges, the sense of productivity & accomplishment, of rewards. Past tense. When I began working in present tense & future tense, I found myself enjoying adventures heretofore unknown to me.

I love your process & the telling of it.

living from glory to glory said...

Hello Maryann, I was really surprised how easily you got the job, (who wouldn't want to hire you)
But, you had no peace! I want to tell you I almost cried when I thought you were joining the paid work force. So happy to hear you're going to continue in the place of homemaker, and helper and friend and the calling of available Grandma...
Blessings, Roxy

Creations By Cindy said...

Praying for you Maryann. When that peace is not there that is my red flag for most decisions i make in my life. So glad you have listened to that still small voice! Hugs and blessings, Cindy

Creations By Cindy said...

Praying for you Maryann. When that peace is not there that is my red flag for most decisions i make in my life. So glad you have listened to that still small voice! Hugs and blessings, Cindy

Camille said...

Thank you for sharing your heart my friend. I appreciate you! And...it sounds like there are many in your life who appreciate you as well. You are right...eternal benefits very often can outweigh the temporal ones...so glad you are settled in your decision. Many Blessings to you! Camille

Anonymous said...

Hi Maryann, it so true that one needs to have the peace of the Lord in our choices. And to enjoy the season you're in is a great thing to do. I trust and pray the Lord guide you continually and bless you in His will.
God bless
Tracy

Cheryl said...

Oh, how often do we (I) make decisions "off the cuff" and not pause to ask Him for guidance! I know that I have done this too often. But how gracious He is to speak softly into our hearts and turn us around.

It is encouraging to know that your heart was tuned to hear His voice. (And I'll just bet that your husband was happy to have you back at home!)

Thank you for sharing your story.