Previous Challenge Entry (Level 2 – Intermediate)
Topic: Calm (emotionally) (09/13/07)
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TITLE: A Quiet Little Corner | Previous Challenge Entry
By Deborah Engle
09/17/07 -
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“Lord, this looks like a good opportunity. The position is supposed to be long-term and that’s exactly what I need, but I’m so naive. Maybe I shouldn’t have accepted so quickly. Would a “trucking environment” make that much difference for an office position? Anyway, a steady income now is vital, and not so easy to come by. Thank you Lord, for your provision.”
“I am to work the outbound window? I have to deal one-on-one with drivers all day? And use the two-way radio, and fill in at the inbound window, and do data entry, and answer the phones, and do paperwork? But Lord, all the other positions here are quiet desk jobs that would truly suit me much better. Are you sure this is what I need to do?”
“Holy Father, another workday is at hand. Even after all these months I still wonder if this will be the day I am let go for incompetence. Why do I continue to make mistakes? It’s so noisy and dirty and chaotic here, and the language...the attitudes, are so degrading. As for that quiet little corner I was looking for? My work area is small and it is a corner, but it’s sure not quiet! Everyone on the dock walks right through the middle of it! God, there must be other jobs that would be more tolerable. Is this really where you want me? In spite of it all, I acknowledge your wisdom and power. I ask you to enable me to be an efficient, productive employee, and to be a light that shows the way to you.
“Thank you Heavenly Father, for enabling me to handle the demands of this job. It’s taken a long time, but I’m not having problems the way I used to, even though procedures are constantly being revised. My spirit used to rebel at the thought of coming in to work, but now I feel as if I belong here. Can my newfound confidence influence the attitudes of those I deal with? Working the window will always be unpredictable but the general atmosphere is noticeably calmer now, and so am I. The truth is, I think I actually like my job. I’ve even had several drivers tell me they appreciate my “cheerful attitude” and “professional manner”. That’s very gratifying to hear, but Lord, if those things are true, I know that it could only be through your Spirit.”
“Lord, has it really been three years since you sent me here to work? I’m not sure how I would have made it if not for your grace. We have seen some positive changes – some subtle, and some very obvious. I am grateful for each one, but we both know the greatest change has been in me. I’m less of an introvert now. I’m no longer intimidated by the crude language and disrespectful attitudes because I’ve learned to look beyond the outward behavior to see the heart. I’ve gained confidence, and that shows in my work performance. I’ve also had my eyes opened. How sad that so many have been deceived by what our society considers acceptable behavior and don’t have the ability to even recognize true values. It has created a compassion for the lost that I never felt before.
Lord, I would have avoided this whole experience if it had been possible, but You had a plan and you brought it about. I was looking for a place to hide while I nursed my wounds, but you found a way to enable and strengthen me. Instead of the circumstantial peace and reclusive solitude I desired, you gave me soul-deep serenity and unending companionship. I wanted to be saved from the storm, but you gave me faith to trust you as we went through the storm together. Your ways are always best, Lord, and I praise you.
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