WHEN YOU KNOW YOU’VE MADE THE RIGHT MID-LIFE CAREER CHANGE…

5th Graders: “Mr. Johnson! What’s your favorite color?”

Me: “I like black and purple.”

30 minutes later:

I’ve been an ordained minister for the past 25 years, but that’s not how I’ve paid my bills.

After years as a Marketing Copywriting Manager, two years ago I began a second career as a teacher at 50 years old.

I have also worked as a Radio Marketing Consultant, Mortgage Loan Originator, Beauty Supply Store Owner, Welder, Machine Operator, Retail Salesperson. I’ve done Nursing Home Ministry, Prison Ministry, Homeless Ministry…however teaching is by far the most challenging work I’ve done.

BUT IT’S SO REWARDING!

This week I had another subtle, but unmistakable defining moment that helped confirm I made the right choice (the conversation and pictures above).

I’m at a school in a system that seems ideal for my personality and skill set. I started my new career in an inner-city school system where my approach was considered by many to be ‘weakness’. I was pleased to establish great relationships with both parents and students, but some people have an idea of ‘toughness’ with which I disagree.

So, as I’ve been settling into a new school system ( I work at the same school as my wife too) I have again established some beautiful relationships with both students and parents…it’s the little things that confirm you’re really appreciated, like the little bracelet my students made for me.

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I’m also reminded every October. In my previous job we received a bonus based on performance that was many times five figures. It’s the same week as our school Fall Break… I’de rather have the break!

To God be the glory!!!!

Proverbs 22:6 (NKJV)

⁶ Train up a child in the way he should go,
^[a]And when he is old he will not depart from it.

Teaching is a ministry.

BE BLESSTIFIED!