After completing week two at my new job, I have really taken the time to reflect on the past six months.
While I would of considered myself unemployed since April (when we moved to Iowa), the truth is I was not. I was helping with my stepdaughter daily but also putting in 20-30 hours a week at a coffee shop. A job that I despised.
It wasn't that the coffee shop was awful. In fact I enjoyed learning how to make my favorite caffeinated beverages. And though I worked with mostly high school students, they were wonderful. These aspiring young adults give me hope in the generation below me.
I remember I was in tears the night before starting and the morning of my first day. About two months into our move and about six months of job hunting I was accepting to work for little to nothing at a coffee shop. Coming from a decent career in Omaha this felt degrading and very discouraging. I saw no light at the end of the tunnel. I questioned the decision I had made to give up my career and move to Iowa for my family. Fearful that "barista" would now forever be my job title, I did what I had to do.
Bless DeVante: Who encouraged me that coffee wasn't my forever, tried to understand my frustration, and grounded me by reminding me that I am not better than ANY job. He never made me feel guilty or inferior. He supported us in many ways and never complained.
My coffee shop job gave me many things. For starters, a a paycheck that was desperately needed. It gave me the opportunity to meet and interact with people in our new location. I learned the skill of coffee making; which being a coffee lover I will no doubt take with me forever. And it taught me to be patient, trust in the Lord, good things come to those who wait, and I am most certainly not better than any job.
Now fast forward. There was a light at the end of the tunnel. After a very long process I believe I have now scored my dream job. I am so grateful for my time "off" and time I got to spend with Tae and Amya.
I feel as if I have grown through this. I am learning to be more trusting in God because everything is on his time, NOT my own.
xo
Ashley
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