Walk it off

TONIGHT I TOOK MY DOG around the block. We've got a lot on our minds these days, me and her. She's mostly thinking about naps and dog bones. Me? I'm thinking about how my life is changing faster than the speed of light (okay, so I'm exaggerating).

In less than a month I will have left my job of 10 years (gulp). I will be relinquishing what feels like an important position (magazine editor) to pursue my dream of becoming a social worker (really important job).

In approximately one month, I will begin my internship at DFCS. As a Title IV-E student, in exchange for tuition, books, insurance, etc., I will give two years of employment. I see this as a win-win. For me, it's a no-brainer; I will incur no debt, and gain experience that will prepare me for social work.

A good friend of mine shared that when he was in med school, the most coveted residencies were those that were offered in the bowels of New York City hospitals. He said he learned the "real deal" there and he encouraged me to take the Title IV-E grant for the same reason. I believed him then, and I still do.

When I met with one of the directors at DFCS the other day I got a tiny taste of what her days are like. Hectic. Full. Important. And, to me, that seemed exciting. She is a gentle soul who faced every situation and interruption with grace and patience. I have no idea what she was thinking or feeling inside, but her calm, cool exterior set me at ease.

While my goal today is to relax and chill out for a while, my eyes are also set on the year ahead. I am scared, I am excited, and most of all, I am grateful.

Whenever I feel as if I can't possibly do this, I remember what my cohort told me in the very beginning: God doesn't call the qualified; God qualifies the called.

~Ms. T. J.