Monique Michel / L’Observateur / June 16, 1999

This past week I started my summer job. The only thing that kept me frombeing completely nervous was the fact that the manager is really great and four of my friends are working at the same place. I knew that two ofmy friends would be there that first day, so I was feeling pretty good. Ifigured that with a job I could get out of the house and earn some easy money. Now I know the truth to the saying, “Money doesn’t grow on trees.”I never dreamed that at this job I would be asked to be overly friendly to rude customers, haul boxes and even sweat a little.

Don’t misunderstand, I really like my job. It’s just that it was a majorwake up call for my friends and me. We now have a new appreciation forall people who have to work to support themselves and their families. Iwas shocked to think of how many hours I’ll have to work to be able to buy those leopard skin sandals at the mall. (Yes, Dad, I’m beginning to realizethe value of money.)But, so far, the major conclusion that I’ve come to is how important it is to pick a career that you love and one that you’re good at. I now know thatmy perfect job will begin at noon. Getting up early is not my thing.I was talking to a college friend who will graduate this upcoming year.

She was telling me how she wished she would have chosen a different major. That really made me think about how important it is to put a lot ofthought and prayer into important decisions, like college majors. Thescripture that came to mind was Proverbs 16:9. It says, “In his heart aman plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps.” We can planahead all we want, but in the end God will guide us to where He wants us to be.

Although I don’t know what my future holds, I know that God has ordained all of my steps and that everything will work out for the best as long as I keep trusting Him. I know that God will also help me get through thissummer job, if I can just wake up in time.

If you have any questions or comments, or any interesting job experiences, please write to me at straightkids@juno.com or P.O. Box 1493, LaPlace, La.70069.

Monique Michel is a regular columnist for L’Observateur

Back to Top

Back to Leisure Headlines

Copyright © 1998, Wick Communications, Inc.

Internet services provided by NeoSoft.

Best viewed with 3.0 or higher