13 April 2008

my grey wool suit, my memory of willy loman, and the hopes i will carry in my jacket pocket

I start a new job Monday. I will work for a Fortune 500 company, one that is in the oil industry. I'll otherwise leave the company anonymous in case they give me interesting blogging opportunities.

It is strange, though, to go from an African church staff of 6 to a American corporation staff of 6 million (exaggeration, I think). Still, it is an important and exciting new challenge. What a great test of faith and purpose!

What is the job of a policeman? Serve and protect?

What is the job of a fireman? Put out fires?

What is the job of a young corporate cubicle-dweller? Create shareholder value?

What is the job of a Christ-following policeman? To love God with all heart, soul, mind, body, and strength...

What is the job of a Christ-following fireman? To love God with all heart, soul, mind, body, and strength...

What is the job of a Christ-following young corporate cubicle-dweller? To love God with all heart, soul, mind, body, and strength...

I start a new job Monday. I am going to accept the challenge. I pray I can be love and hope and kindness and generosity to people who simply expect diligence. I hope I can fill out both of my job descriptions.

3 comments:

  1. i know that you won't end up with the same fate as willy loman! i know that you'll achieve wealth and success, all while holding strong to your principles. just remember not to whistle in the elevator.

    -biff loman

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  2. that's my husband!! i know you will...i love you

    -stef

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  3. I spent 7 years in a Fortune 50 corporate HQ. The most magnificent year was when I started posting the Shema (2 greatest commandments) on a sheet of paper above my phone and meditating on it as often as possible. I would read it through before getting on a dreaded conference call. I would meditate on it when getting ready to "TCB" for an afternoon. I would dwell on it while walking down a corridor towards a meeting full of expected conflict or dullery. I would end each meditation with, "Okay, God, how can I love you more fully in this next moment. Who is the neighbors I need to learn to love in this situation?" It was incredibly stretching - and miraculous as situations change when you approach them with that angle.

    When that became my focus, coworkers and even superiors began to seek out my "source of hope and light." A lot more effective than me trying to convince them they were in darkness.

    Cool runnings and peace be the journey, brother.

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