Take Time to Answer the Big Questions

Brenda Griffin Get A Job Expert

Within us all there are wells of thought and dynamos of energy which are not suspected until emergencies arise. ~  Thomas J. Watson

     It's Tuesday!  The Tuesday after an important day in the United States - Memorial Day.  It's a day of remembrance of those who died serving in the military. Also honored are those who lived and those continuing to serve.  To all Veterans, I thank you for your service. You are an inspiration.

     I was sitting next to an Army Lieutenant on a flight from Chicago to Syracuse several years ago.  I was thrilled with the timing. As we made eye contact during the beverage service, I put out my first question. What followed was a fascinating, two-hour Technicolor portrait. I had a front row seat, for the first time, with someone on active duty.

     I had just written my first letter to the editor. I was moved by an article announcing the return of the 10^th Mountain Division from Iraq.  It presented their daily experiences.  This group is based two hours from my home. It was also where the Lieutenant was headed. 

     What caught my eye was the role of the Champlain. I felt relief.  The troops had someone looking out for their spiritual needs; something I never considered before.  It prompted many questions about life in the military and the men and women who enlist. The Lieutenant was both generous with his time and pleased with my interest.

     This weekend, I thought of him and what I learned that day. He faced big questions about his choice to enlist.  He didn't hesitate to do so after 9/11, acting on his decision with courage.  Acceptance with his new way of life followed. Unemployed and at risk workers often face big questions, too.

     He was coming home to witness the birth of his third child. He spoke of lengthy tours of duty away from home and his family. Sometimes months, sometimes years.  This was the hardest part of his job.  So here's a big question - would you be willing to relocate temporarily from your family, if need be?  How about long term?  How about moving the whole family?

     He spoke of the harsh weather conditions not to mention the greater risks of  putting your life on the line.  The hours were long, as were the weeks.  More big questions. Would you be willing to put in overtime? Would you be willing to work odd hours? Take on work that required specialized training or involves harsh working conditions? How far would you be willing to commute?  What sacrifices would you be willing to make to have a paycheck?

     What struck me most about this man was his commitment to his country.  He knew deep down that he was meant to do this work. Knowing that put these sacrifices into perspective for him.  The ultimate big question - would you be willing to do what ever it takes for a cause you believe in? Would you be willing to do what ever it takes to get a paycheck?

     Big questions take time to answer.  Harder still is the courage to act. No one can answer for you.  The answers are neither right nor wrong.  Just answers you need to know for yourself. Considering them is not lost time in the job search process.  Knowing the parameters of your limits sets the stage for your search.

     Like the Lieutenant, I'm sure you are capable of more than you realize!  When you have a firm belief that you are doing the right thing for you and your family, you will make your decision and not look back either.  Don't hesitate to open yourself up to the possibilities and think big in your job search.

     I believe in you.  I know you will do what ever it takes.