Two years ago I started a new job somewhat reluctantly. Going to work meant I had to leave my writing behind, and I’d have to interact with people I didn’t know. GASP! I would have to smile and be present.
Writers are often off in their own worlds thinking about their book even if they are standing right next to you. We forget to smile, instead, we make strange thinking faces. Or so I’ve been told by my husband.
After a few weeks of settling in, I loved my position at PYC-programs for young children. Smiling faces of little ones brightened my day. Laughter and silly actions lifted my heart. Watching them discover the amazing in the ordinary helped me see it too. Helping with zippers, mittens, and coats could have frustrated me but instead reminded me how fragile childhood can be.
While I started this position thinking I would be able to serve well with my social media skills it didn’t take long to realize there was so much more.
I met incredible patient women who taught there. I learned to sing everything because preschoolers listen when you sing instructions. I didn’t hesitate to hop into a substitute position when needed because joy is a child who paints and tells you a story.
Then Covid-19 became a reality.
The preschool had to change a lot of things to be able to open. I was one of the changes, wanted but no longer needed at this time. It breaks my heart to step away but I understand. I will miss the women I worked with, the children, and their families.
I am walking away with good memories and new people skills because God sent me here–not so much so I could help at PYC, but that He could help me.
I am a better person for working at PYC and hope to be a better writer, because without people skills how can one write about people?
Sorry about loss of your job. Always remember, when God closes a door another will open.
Who knows, God may find favor with you and give you something better.
Good Luck And Best Wishes.
Blessings and God Bless You.
Absolutely, He will give me something that will surprise me. 🙂
So many times Father God has seasons for us to walk through…good ones and others are challenging. But we we learn from you each one. Sounds like Father God blessed you in this season and will use it in your next season of change and discovery. Hugs
I definitely learn something through each of these seasons. There have been so many. I’m ready for a happy season. 🙂
I have no doubt that God has a plan for you, even bigger and better than before. He will continue to use you to serve him.
I agree, Julie. He never ceases to amaze me with what comes next.
Diana that was beautiful, I got chills of joy reading it, thank you for sharing such beautiful thoughts. It is a wonderful thing when you can see the world through a child’s eye, enjoy and experience their sweet innocence if even for a brief moment. Love you gf.
Love you to Gf! It’s so much fun experiencing the world through the littles. I’m sure you know that too!
Imagine how wonderful those children will feel when they grow up and discover that they had such an amazing writer helping them! And I am looking forward to reading the work that grows out of your time with them.
Now that is a great way to look at this! 🙂
Love this, such a wonderful way to state the human element of separation. We often tend to overreact to dismissal but you broke this down beautifully. Human interaction is often taken for granted but when looked upon in the way you described, so beautiful as well..
Timothy, you made my eyes water. Thank you for your kind words.
Thinking of you and knowing God has a plan. I’m sure you touched the hearts of everyone you met, especially the young ones.
Thank you. I’m pray that is so.
I bet you’ll have great scenes with young children in upcoming books you write as a result of your experiences with PYC. I’m so glad you enjoyed your time there! God uses all our experiences.
Good point! Those fun moments might find a way into a story or two. 🙂
I remember when you told me you had to reluctantly start back to work, and you didn’t know how much time that would leave for writing. And now that time is over. I’m so glad that was a profitable time for you and so many valuable lessons learned. God bless you as you delve deeper into your stories with newfound appreciation for people and what makes them tick. I’m working on Book 3 of my Chandler’s Grove Series, Becoming Sisters. Hugs, Carol
Carol! I don’t know what happened. I commented and it disappeared! You’re right I was very reluctant to step back from my writing. Yay, you’re working on book 3! We can be book buddies as I’m working on book 3 as well. 🙂