Back to Work Full-Time and Loving It

I have been employed full-time pretty much my entire adult life, even through college and law school. The last time I had a full-time attorney job was in early March of this year, now over 8 months ago.

That is the longest period of time I have ever been without a full-time job in my entire life, and it sucked more than I can possibly put into words. There are so many things I took for granted up until recently, mainly having money of my own, being able to afford a few luxuries in life, working as a professional, and most importantly, being able to pay my bills. These things sound so small, right up until the minute they are taken away.

I was able to find part-time work as a softball umpire and flag football referee, which I sincerely enjoyed. The job paid better than most menial labor positions, and it did make a dent in my bills. However, the truth is that I would not have been able to pay my bills without the financial support from my family and friends, and I would have been homeless or living with my Dad if it weren't for my wife. I have already told my family and friends how much I appreciate their help during this difficult time, but I would be remiss if I didn't take a moment to express how truly wonderful my wife was over these last 8+ months. We had some disagreements about money, but she never once failed to help me when it was absolutely necessary. Althea, no matter what happens in the future, I will never forget how supportive you were when I needed you the most, so thank you, and I love you.

As you may have guessed by now, after putting out more than 250 application packages for jobs from Hawaii to Italy, I am blessed to be back working full-time at a job in downtown Nashville. My starting salary is about 10% less than I was making back in March, but I think that is a fair trade given the increased quality of life, good bosses, seemingly cool co-workers, and potential for advancement that comes with this position. Also, this job is actually closer to home than my last job, a nice little bonus. Today was my first day back to work, and it felt great being back at work as an attorney again. I have to give a big shout out to Terrance for getting me the interview that led to this job...brother, if you need my last can of pork and beans, you need only to ask. :) Although I know I have a lot to learn working in an area of the law I don't know much about (yet), I am eager to learn and willing to work hard, and that should serve me well. As an aside, I bear no ill will toward my last employer...they gave me a great opportunity and paid me fairly for my hard work, it was simply time for both of us to move on.

I haven't always done the best job handling money, but that is something upon which I sincerely intend to improve this time around, especially when it comes to rendering unto God what is rightfully His. When I was unemployed, I made a promise to God that, if he put me back to work, I would be faithful in my tithing, and that is something I have never done before. I truly believe that God keeps His word, so I look forward with interest to see what God will do when I am faithful with my finances. Lord, thank you for putting me back to work. I promise to work as hard as I can, and to do my work with integrity in a manner befitting your kingdom and showing appreciation for your blessings.