Happy to announce #34
Two weeks ago, I wrote about a great job opportunity that was presented to me. Although my initial reaction was to say no because I wasn’t looking for a full-time job, or any job for that matter, I decided to check into it further. I wondered if it might possibly be leading me in some unknown but more favorable direction. In fact, I agonized for days over whether this was a great opportunity or a test of my resolve to follow my lifelong dreams. I went for the first interview before my vacation so that I would have more information to make my decision. I ultimately convinced myself while I was away that it was an opportunity that I shouldn’t pass up. All those well intentioned warnings that a chance like this wouldn’t come again and that I could always quit if I didn’t like it got my attention. I returned from my vacation ready to accept the position and called to schedule a second interview as we had agreed.
During that second interview, I began to open my eyes to the reality of the situation. I had been fairly excited about taking the job but it was for all the wrong reasons. The financial stability was tempting, to be sure. But also, I could see myself enjoying getting dressed up professionally everyday and having the status and title of the position. I kept picturing how happy my mother would be to know her daughter had a financially secure position and was using her R.N. again. I really liked the people I would be working with in the office, especially the man who would be my boss. But what about the long commute on Rte 3 during rush hour; a lot of driving around in congested areas that I was unfamiliar with; dealing with scheduling people and coordinating care for seniors around the clock; being in charge of conflict resolution; and most importantly, not having time to do my painting, writing and inspirational speaking? What about that dream?????
I remembered when I was struggling with my role as shop owner a few years ago. A lifelong friend said to me, “Paula, in all the years I’ve known you, I never heard you say that your dream was to open a shop.” So now I have to ask myself, is it my dream to run around crazy in a 9 to 5 job coordinating care for seniors? Although it’s an incredibly worthy ambition for the right person, the answer for me is, “Heck NO!!!” So, I’m very, very happy to announce that . . . . .
I will NOT be selling my soul today.
Let your spirit soar!
Paula
Spirit Rising Ministries 
Dear Paula – I could quite literally feel my heart center open up as I just read this and felt the joy and freedom of your discovery that you have the power to say Yes to living your Being-ness (with a capital B!) and No to somebody else’s very worthy ambition. Looking forward to catching up soon!
Much Love,
Susan
Hi Susan!
Oh, how nice to hear from you. 🙂 I was thinking of calling you about my discovery because I forgot that you had subscribed to my blog and I wanted to share my excitement with you! I’m sitting hear with a huge smile on my face, both at my new found freedom to BE ME, and at your response.
This whole job experience really helped clarify for me what I want to say in my speaking career. I am scheduled to speak to 100 women in mid-October and I was wondering how to weave a more spiritual element into my speech for such a “general” audience (as opposed to women specifically coming for a “spiritual” retreat). I now realize that I can continue speaking about being true to one’s self and living one’s dream. The difference is, I will help them to realize the truth of their loving nature first , and then show them how letting that love inform “who” and “how” they want to be in the world will bring them joy.
Thanks for listening. 🙂 🙂 🙂
Lots of love!
Paula
Susan – I loved how you said, “discovery that you have the power to say Yes to living your Being-ness and No to somebody else’s worthy ambition.”
My goodness, that’s challenging, empowering, and validating when we see the worthiness of so much outside of ourselves and then in ourself when we make the choice to invest in our own being.
Thank you.
Christine
Paula…loved reading your job interview experience and decision making process. Yay to dreams which become manifest!
Peace,
Maureen
Thanks, Maureen. I gained a lot from this experience. 🙂
Paula,
I got so much out of you sharing your story. And, of your insightful words yesterday. Thank you. You helped me stay focused on my Being-ness (with a capital B – thanks Susan). I feel so much more centered. I know which way I’m heading now. – No, we won’t be going to look at the building. : )
I will NOT be selling my soul today !
Best
Christine
Can you feel me smiling, Christine? Nothing gives me more joy than seeing someone else gain clarity on how they want to share their own joyful self with the world. You just keep following your heart and you and the whole world will be blessed!