So, a lot of jumbled thoughts have been racing through my mind lately, and although I have wanted to blog several times, there just has not been good enough material until tonight.
I realised some time ago that I have a very hard time staying in one place and in one job. Five years of living on a three-month schedule between college, camp, and home sort of conditioned me to be used to that sort of thing...not to mention my insatiable wanderlust. Keeping a steady job is something I esteem in my mind, but after a few months I start getting anxious. I suppose the grass always looks greener elsewhere to me as well. The same is happening at my current job working for a moving company. It is certainly not a bad job. Some days I get anxious about who I will have to work with, but the pay is good and the work is enjoyable for the most part. I am not getting enough hours right now, but I know the summer moving season is closing in, and I could apply for a driver position and immediately start making more money.
So, why look for a new job? I suppose I don't have a good enough reason.
Right now, I think this is a test of my endurance. I could make more money working at a camp all summer (which I am currently doing on the weekends), but a regular summer job would necessarily end eventually, and I would be out of work again. Not a healthy cycle to continue in the long run. Buckling down and saving money should take prime importance to me right now.
A long-time friend of mine is visiting Grand Rapids from Rapid City, South Dakota, and we got a chance to catch up this evening. Hearing about my job situation, he informed me that oilfield workers in North Dakota can make upwards of $40,000 per year in entry-level jobs, and that the job market in the Dakotas in general is MUCH better than here in Michigan. This not only raised my hopes for finding better work out West next summer, but also piqued my interest toward the oilfield jobs. I have certainly considered similar jobs because of the pay, but I had not given it any serious thought. Now, however, I may actually go join one of these operations once my year lease is up in 2015.
This presents another self-imposed quandary. I am always laying obligations on myself: ministry obligations, job obligations (jobligations?), friend obligations...you name it. I try to make plans very far in advance and then keep myself to them. This is not always a negative thing. A man of his word is very hard to find nowadays. The issue comes when I regret the obligations I have unnecessarily forced on myself.
Example: I very much want to move to Durango, Colorado Springs, or Santa Fe in summer 2015. When I first considered working the oilfields, I immediately thought, "Oh, but then I would be going back on what I said to this person, and that one, and...." Wait a minute. I am about to sign a year lease in Grand Rapids, sure, but I have made no agreements past that point. None. I am a free agent once that year is up, and I really should take advantage of it.
The plan is to move out West. Beyond that, I will stay speculating, and avoid making any promises.
I think I'll post more journal entries from Idaho next.
Peace.
Showing posts with label work. Show all posts
Showing posts with label work. Show all posts
Wednesday, March 12, 2014
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
Westward 2013, debrief
SO, blogosphere, it appears that the King of the Wild Frontier has returned from his latest adventure and is ready to resume his online thought processing!
Most of you have heard my trip to Idaho was full of rewarding work and beautiful scenery. I could stop there, and it would be entirely accurate...but for those who want more, allow me to expound.
The trip out was an experience in and of itself. My friend Taylor and I camped in National Forests for free most of the way. We heard wolves in the mountains near one campsite, slept practically on the Continental Divide, and paid an arm and a leg to do next to nothing in Yellowstone National Park.
Once we got to the farm, things got even better. It was situated between three separate ranges of the Rockies (the Selkirks, Purcells, and Cabinets), and was far from any serious human clutter and noise. There was a small line of mountains right behind the farm, and I summited two of the peaks in one day: Line Point and Goat Mountain. Unfortunately, I neglected to plan well enough and almost had to spend the night on a mountainside in grizzly bear country. Heh, whoops.
The job itself was great. Good, hard work four days a week, and three-day weekends. I also realised how much farm work of this sort suits me. This should not have come as a surprise to me, as almost my entire family is comprised of farmers going back generations. I would strongly consider working for a similar farm (or even the same one) full-time whenever I settle down.
Our time on the farm (Ronniger's Organics, in case you were wondering) did include one very untimely event, though. Another intern who had been working there since around May shot and killed himself in his own cabin, which was just a hundred or so yards from our cabin and the owners' home. This came as a shock to everyone, and made things hard for quite some time. I have never dealt with death before, and especially not suicide. I am unsure what else to say about it, really...I was not particularly close to him, but our boss Simon was good friends with him, and he took it very hard for a while. Taylor and I just tried to keep our minds off it.
Changing topics completely now, I kept a journal every single day of the trip except five days while we were at the Barter Faire, which I will discuss later. Journaling regularly is something I have always wanted to do, but have never felt quite able or motivated enough to actually accomplish. It truly helped me to process my thoughts on a daily basis, kept me reading and writing, and strengthened my resolve to pursue some of my personal goals. I may post one or two journal entries here when I get the chance. I used my journal to also practice writing in general, and it is full of edits, so the posts will not be as raw as they are in their current state.
As I mentioned, I also read quite a bit. I finished "Into the Wild" by John Krakauer, the story of Chris McCandless, who abandoned everything he had after college to search for something...purpose, himself, the meaning of life, a real existence, God...he died alone in the Alaskan wilderness. His search, though, resounded in my soul, and showed what one young man can (and cannot) do if he sets his mind to it.
Next, I read "Pilgrim at Tinker Creek," an abstract Christian nature theology book by Annie Dillard which explores both the wonder and horror displayed in Creation. Very interesting and even beautiful at times, but very difficult to read. The descriptions of her experiences with the Spirit of God in nature really hit home in me.
A book which I have been trying to read for almost two years now, "'Hunting Trips of a Ranchman' and 'The Wilderness Hunter'" by Theodore Roosevelt, saw its completion on this trip. Roosevelt's descriptions of the West and life on the old prairie are the stuff of legend: tales of hunting grizzly bears, sleeping in buffalo robes, and heading out on horseback for days with nothing but a blanket, a gun, and some bread and water.
I also began reading some Henry David Thoreau, whose writings were referenced by Krakauer and Dillard. His longings for solitude in nature, yet also true friendship, also echo deep in my soul. I have yet to finish the compilation of his works I am reading, though, so I have not fully developed my thoughts on him yet.
Now, before finishing up, let me quickly explain the Barter Faire, which I mentioned in passing earlier. It is actually called the Okanogan Family Faire, and is located roughly in central Washington. The fair takes place over about five days, and is a combination of a giant farmers' market, a music festival, a county fair, and a hippie festival...and I am very serious about the hippies. This place was almost like a dream come true for me: trading vegetables for other goods, working and having fun at the same time, and giant, intense drum circles all night long. Yes, drum circles. The event was basically the end of our time working at the farm, and certainly was a great way to finish the season, as Simon told us it would be.
All in all, my time in Idaho served to shape me more fully as a man. I will always have room to grow, of course, but I can identify very specific areas of growth. First, again as mentioned earlier, my resolve was strengthened. Through helping me identify what I truly value in life (that is, who and whose opinions are important to me, my true passions and life goals, and the lifestyle I want to pursue), God strengthened my motivation to take certain steps. These include: moving out of the Lansing area and living with my friend Andrew (who is also trying to move forward in life and chase the westward dream), educating myself on geology and paleontology for now, and saving up to move to Durango, CO as soon as possible. Several occurrences prior to my departure and the lessons I learned while in Idaho have made it clear that the time to sit and wait is over: now is the time for action. So, Andrew and I are moving to Grand Rapids this January, where we will be working and getting ready to eventually move away.
Second, I learned about working hard and working over your scheduled time in order to complete a job. Perhaps it was easier because I enjoyed the job so much, but my time on the farm helped me understand the importance of work in life. I do not view work as a bad thing, or as something I must do in order to make a living, but rather as an opportunity to serve others and build up oneself at the same time. I used to complain about staying late at previous jobs, but now I see doing the work well and seeing it to completion is actually quite personally rewarding.
Third, making this trip happen was in itself a very important moment of growth. I have never done something this "crazy" before, but after being on the farm for a few weeks I realised it was not so crazy after all. In fact, it felt right...and almost normal. This realisation was very important for my life in the future. Now I can see doing things like this is both very possible and absolutely fantastic.
I hope this sheds more light on what the trip meant to me. Naturally, there is still much left unsaid, but such is life. I would like to express all the lessons I learned, ways I grew, and experiences I had to all of you, but I simply cannot. They are my own, and belong to no other.
Please, I urge you to take the step you are too afraid to take, shoot for the goal you think impossible, and make your own dreams come true. It can be done, and once you try, you will be living life on a new level. Then, the lessons, growth, and experiences will be all yours. Then, God will show you things about yourself you never imagined.
Peace.
Most of you have heard my trip to Idaho was full of rewarding work and beautiful scenery. I could stop there, and it would be entirely accurate...but for those who want more, allow me to expound.
The trip out was an experience in and of itself. My friend Taylor and I camped in National Forests for free most of the way. We heard wolves in the mountains near one campsite, slept practically on the Continental Divide, and paid an arm and a leg to do next to nothing in Yellowstone National Park.
Once we got to the farm, things got even better. It was situated between three separate ranges of the Rockies (the Selkirks, Purcells, and Cabinets), and was far from any serious human clutter and noise. There was a small line of mountains right behind the farm, and I summited two of the peaks in one day: Line Point and Goat Mountain. Unfortunately, I neglected to plan well enough and almost had to spend the night on a mountainside in grizzly bear country. Heh, whoops.
The job itself was great. Good, hard work four days a week, and three-day weekends. I also realised how much farm work of this sort suits me. This should not have come as a surprise to me, as almost my entire family is comprised of farmers going back generations. I would strongly consider working for a similar farm (or even the same one) full-time whenever I settle down.
Our time on the farm (Ronniger's Organics, in case you were wondering) did include one very untimely event, though. Another intern who had been working there since around May shot and killed himself in his own cabin, which was just a hundred or so yards from our cabin and the owners' home. This came as a shock to everyone, and made things hard for quite some time. I have never dealt with death before, and especially not suicide. I am unsure what else to say about it, really...I was not particularly close to him, but our boss Simon was good friends with him, and he took it very hard for a while. Taylor and I just tried to keep our minds off it.
Changing topics completely now, I kept a journal every single day of the trip except five days while we were at the Barter Faire, which I will discuss later. Journaling regularly is something I have always wanted to do, but have never felt quite able or motivated enough to actually accomplish. It truly helped me to process my thoughts on a daily basis, kept me reading and writing, and strengthened my resolve to pursue some of my personal goals. I may post one or two journal entries here when I get the chance. I used my journal to also practice writing in general, and it is full of edits, so the posts will not be as raw as they are in their current state.
As I mentioned, I also read quite a bit. I finished "Into the Wild" by John Krakauer, the story of Chris McCandless, who abandoned everything he had after college to search for something...purpose, himself, the meaning of life, a real existence, God...he died alone in the Alaskan wilderness. His search, though, resounded in my soul, and showed what one young man can (and cannot) do if he sets his mind to it.
Next, I read "Pilgrim at Tinker Creek," an abstract Christian nature theology book by Annie Dillard which explores both the wonder and horror displayed in Creation. Very interesting and even beautiful at times, but very difficult to read. The descriptions of her experiences with the Spirit of God in nature really hit home in me.
A book which I have been trying to read for almost two years now, "'Hunting Trips of a Ranchman' and 'The Wilderness Hunter'" by Theodore Roosevelt, saw its completion on this trip. Roosevelt's descriptions of the West and life on the old prairie are the stuff of legend: tales of hunting grizzly bears, sleeping in buffalo robes, and heading out on horseback for days with nothing but a blanket, a gun, and some bread and water.
I also began reading some Henry David Thoreau, whose writings were referenced by Krakauer and Dillard. His longings for solitude in nature, yet also true friendship, also echo deep in my soul. I have yet to finish the compilation of his works I am reading, though, so I have not fully developed my thoughts on him yet.
Now, before finishing up, let me quickly explain the Barter Faire, which I mentioned in passing earlier. It is actually called the Okanogan Family Faire, and is located roughly in central Washington. The fair takes place over about five days, and is a combination of a giant farmers' market, a music festival, a county fair, and a hippie festival...and I am very serious about the hippies. This place was almost like a dream come true for me: trading vegetables for other goods, working and having fun at the same time, and giant, intense drum circles all night long. Yes, drum circles. The event was basically the end of our time working at the farm, and certainly was a great way to finish the season, as Simon told us it would be.
All in all, my time in Idaho served to shape me more fully as a man. I will always have room to grow, of course, but I can identify very specific areas of growth. First, again as mentioned earlier, my resolve was strengthened. Through helping me identify what I truly value in life (that is, who and whose opinions are important to me, my true passions and life goals, and the lifestyle I want to pursue), God strengthened my motivation to take certain steps. These include: moving out of the Lansing area and living with my friend Andrew (who is also trying to move forward in life and chase the westward dream), educating myself on geology and paleontology for now, and saving up to move to Durango, CO as soon as possible. Several occurrences prior to my departure and the lessons I learned while in Idaho have made it clear that the time to sit and wait is over: now is the time for action. So, Andrew and I are moving to Grand Rapids this January, where we will be working and getting ready to eventually move away.
Second, I learned about working hard and working over your scheduled time in order to complete a job. Perhaps it was easier because I enjoyed the job so much, but my time on the farm helped me understand the importance of work in life. I do not view work as a bad thing, or as something I must do in order to make a living, but rather as an opportunity to serve others and build up oneself at the same time. I used to complain about staying late at previous jobs, but now I see doing the work well and seeing it to completion is actually quite personally rewarding.
Third, making this trip happen was in itself a very important moment of growth. I have never done something this "crazy" before, but after being on the farm for a few weeks I realised it was not so crazy after all. In fact, it felt right...and almost normal. This realisation was very important for my life in the future. Now I can see doing things like this is both very possible and absolutely fantastic.
I hope this sheds more light on what the trip meant to me. Naturally, there is still much left unsaid, but such is life. I would like to express all the lessons I learned, ways I grew, and experiences I had to all of you, but I simply cannot. They are my own, and belong to no other.
Please, I urge you to take the step you are too afraid to take, shoot for the goal you think impossible, and make your own dreams come true. It can be done, and once you try, you will be living life on a new level. Then, the lessons, growth, and experiences will be all yours. Then, God will show you things about yourself you never imagined.
Peace.
Monday, August 26, 2013
Westward 2013, pre-launch
So, here we are again. The third summer's-end in a row I'm making a trip west. This trip is much different, though. Instead of a vacation, it is a work trip, a seasonal volunteer opportunity, a long road trip, a new temporary home, a chance to unplug myself from most technology and the rest of the world for a season.
The true reality of going to Idaho, however, is it will be a spiritual journey.
I am leaving behind the world I know: my job, my family, my state, my dear friends, my perspectives, most of my belongings, and maybe even a bit of my self. A different life awaits me on the opposite end of this journey. I do not know what it will look like, or if it will "look" different at all.
I will not be the same, though.
A friend told me this would be the case, but also explained how my old ways and thoughts will not be easily shaken off. Change, although encouraged by a new location and lifestyle, still does not come easy. It comes with a price.
I hope to spend a lot of time reading, writing (something I have not done much of before), making music, and experiencing God's beauty in the mountains. The same previously mentioned friend also told me to make intentional goals for my time there in order to get the most out of it and facilitate the change I desire. These goals are probably going to be related to the activities I just mentioned.
This weekend was a very emotional one for me. I hosted a send-off party at my house, and over thirty of my friends came to say goodbye. I received many kind words, and some meaningful gifts...the greatest of these was love. After almost everyone had gone, I realised how much I love my friends, and how much they love me. They truly are my family; not to diminish how much I value my family, but rather to say how much I value my friends. We treat each other as family.
Last night I took one final trip to Grand Rapids to support a friend who was performing a stand-up routine, and to see my best friend Korey. I don't often use specific names on this blog, purposefully so, but it is appropriate to mention him. We could not spend much time together, but it meant so much for us to see each other before I left. He also gave me some very meaningful gifts and words.
One friend commented on how we said goodbye as if we would never see each other again.
It is better to love fully, without holding back, than to keep it inside. Fear of rejection stifles the human desire to be vulnerable with each other.
A famous quote from C.S. Lewis:
On a different note, I am moving out of Lansing today. Tomorrow, Wednesday, and Thursday I will be traveling around southeast Michigan: cutting bank ties and seeing a few more friends before I go. Friday and Saturday I will be spending some final time in northern Michigan, and Sunday will be a farewell cookout at my church and one last board game with some friends from Lansing.
Labor Day, Monday, September 2, we leave for Idaho.
I know many of you will want to know what is going on while I am there. I will likely not be blogging or using Facebook during my time on the farm, and I have no idea if I will be able to call people using my cell phone. When possible, I would like to send group e-mail updates to those who will read them. If you want, send me an e-mail soon so I can have a list of addresses ready before I leave. No promises on the frequency of these e-mails, but I will try my hardest to keep you informed.
butlerc777@gmail.com
Your prayers are appreciated. Thank you.
Peace.
The true reality of going to Idaho, however, is it will be a spiritual journey.
I am leaving behind the world I know: my job, my family, my state, my dear friends, my perspectives, most of my belongings, and maybe even a bit of my self. A different life awaits me on the opposite end of this journey. I do not know what it will look like, or if it will "look" different at all.
I will not be the same, though.
A friend told me this would be the case, but also explained how my old ways and thoughts will not be easily shaken off. Change, although encouraged by a new location and lifestyle, still does not come easy. It comes with a price.
I hope to spend a lot of time reading, writing (something I have not done much of before), making music, and experiencing God's beauty in the mountains. The same previously mentioned friend also told me to make intentional goals for my time there in order to get the most out of it and facilitate the change I desire. These goals are probably going to be related to the activities I just mentioned.
This weekend was a very emotional one for me. I hosted a send-off party at my house, and over thirty of my friends came to say goodbye. I received many kind words, and some meaningful gifts...the greatest of these was love. After almost everyone had gone, I realised how much I love my friends, and how much they love me. They truly are my family; not to diminish how much I value my family, but rather to say how much I value my friends. We treat each other as family.
Last night I took one final trip to Grand Rapids to support a friend who was performing a stand-up routine, and to see my best friend Korey. I don't often use specific names on this blog, purposefully so, but it is appropriate to mention him. We could not spend much time together, but it meant so much for us to see each other before I left. He also gave me some very meaningful gifts and words.
One friend commented on how we said goodbye as if we would never see each other again.
It is better to love fully, without holding back, than to keep it inside. Fear of rejection stifles the human desire to be vulnerable with each other.
A famous quote from C.S. Lewis:
"To love at all is to be vulnerable. Love anything and your heart will be wrung and possibly broken. If you want to make sure of keeping it intact you must give it to no one, not even an animal. Wrap it carefully round with hobbies and little luxuries; avoid all entanglements. Lock it up safe in the casket or coffin of your selfishness. But in that casket, safe, dark, motionless, airless, it will change. It will not be broken; it will become unbreakable, impenetrable, irredeemable. To love is to be vulnerable."
God is slowly showing me what love without fear looks like. Perhaps this is what will be different about me when I return to Michigan once more (I was tempted to write "for the final time" instead of "once more"...a good friend once told me I am very dramatic, but it is a good thing because God made my personality this way, haha. Perhaps "final time" is too dramatic, but who knows?).On a different note, I am moving out of Lansing today. Tomorrow, Wednesday, and Thursday I will be traveling around southeast Michigan: cutting bank ties and seeing a few more friends before I go. Friday and Saturday I will be spending some final time in northern Michigan, and Sunday will be a farewell cookout at my church and one last board game with some friends from Lansing.
Labor Day, Monday, September 2, we leave for Idaho.
I know many of you will want to know what is going on while I am there. I will likely not be blogging or using Facebook during my time on the farm, and I have no idea if I will be able to call people using my cell phone. When possible, I would like to send group e-mail updates to those who will read them. If you want, send me an e-mail soon so I can have a list of addresses ready before I leave. No promises on the frequency of these e-mails, but I will try my hardest to keep you informed.
butlerc777@gmail.com
Your prayers are appreciated. Thank you.
Peace.
Monday, November 19, 2012
Finally.
So, I unexpectedly had my first day of work today. I started training at 10am and finished at 7pm. A full day of work at full pay...it felt great. Thank you all for your prayers. There's only a few final kinks to work out, but I am hired and have officially started work. I'm working with my old youth pastor, too, which makes the job way better.
Thank you, Lord.
Peace.
Thank you, Lord.
Peace.
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Halloween!
So, I know I'm a little old for trick-or-treating...but I got to go with my pastor and his daughter today for the first time...in a long time.
Besides the obvious joy of collecting candy with a little kid, today has been a great day. I went to an interview for a security company and ended up getting offered a job on the spot! Then, my mom took me out to lunch and bought me a chainsaw...for which I will be paying her back with this job, haha.
I had been getting pretty discouraged about not having a job, but God is good, and He has shown me that this week. Today he showed (reminded, really) me a few things in 1 Corinthians chapter seven. He reminded me that He has been "acting with great boldness toward me," like He told me on the way back from Colorado. It was good to be reminded of that, since I had been losing sight of it. In verse six, God also reminded me that He "comforts the downcast," which is how I've been feeling for a little while now because of my job situation. God has comforted me a lot today. He is so good.
Now, here's a picture of my costume (no beard...gotta shave for job interviews!):
Peace.
Besides the obvious joy of collecting candy with a little kid, today has been a great day. I went to an interview for a security company and ended up getting offered a job on the spot! Then, my mom took me out to lunch and bought me a chainsaw...for which I will be paying her back with this job, haha.
I had been getting pretty discouraged about not having a job, but God is good, and He has shown me that this week. Today he showed (reminded, really) me a few things in 1 Corinthians chapter seven. He reminded me that He has been "acting with great boldness toward me," like He told me on the way back from Colorado. It was good to be reminded of that, since I had been losing sight of it. In verse six, God also reminded me that He "comforts the downcast," which is how I've been feeling for a little while now because of my job situation. God has comforted me a lot today. He is so good.
Now, here's a picture of my costume (no beard...gotta shave for job interviews!):
Peace.
Sunday, September 30, 2012
Westward 2012, pre-launch
So, following somewhat in the footsteps of my trip West one year ago, tomorrow I'm embarking on my second trip to the Rockies...this time, by myself. I'm taking a bus to Colorado Springs to hang out with some friends I have there and to see if it's a place where I could eventually live. I'll be gone until October 11. Just like last year, I will try to post regularly on here and have pictures of the places I visit.
I'm excited to see what God has planned for this trip. Great things usually happen when I get out of my own comfort zone, and this is pretty far out there. Don't get me wrong, it's something I definitely want to be doing, but this is the biggest trip I've ever done by myself. I've been needing a shake-up to my routine, though. This trip will be really good for me in that way.
One big issue I'm facing with all this is getting someone to lead worship at my church this Sunday while I'm away. So far I've been entirely unsuccessful at finding a replacement, and now I'm leaving Lansing without having this problem resolved. It doesn't feel good, but I'm trying to trust that God has it under control.
Another issue is my job situation after I get back. One of my friends from church is giving me a referral to his factory when I get back, and it would be exactly the kind of work I need right now. I would appreciate your prayers for this and for the other things I've already mentioned.
Peace.
I'm excited to see what God has planned for this trip. Great things usually happen when I get out of my own comfort zone, and this is pretty far out there. Don't get me wrong, it's something I definitely want to be doing, but this is the biggest trip I've ever done by myself. I've been needing a shake-up to my routine, though. This trip will be really good for me in that way.
One big issue I'm facing with all this is getting someone to lead worship at my church this Sunday while I'm away. So far I've been entirely unsuccessful at finding a replacement, and now I'm leaving Lansing without having this problem resolved. It doesn't feel good, but I'm trying to trust that God has it under control.
Another issue is my job situation after I get back. One of my friends from church is giving me a referral to his factory when I get back, and it would be exactly the kind of work I need right now. I would appreciate your prayers for this and for the other things I've already mentioned.
Peace.
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
Life turmoil in 3...
So, as I said in my last post, this is the last week of my park ranger job. People have been praying for me and keeping their eyes open for jobs, and some things are starting to get sorted out.
First, I have an interview this Friday at the Harris Nature Center in Okemos. I already know the workers there and have been volunteering there for a number of years, so I have a good foot in the door to land the position. The job itself would be part time; mostly weekend work from what I know so far. This is exactly the kind of job I want in regards to what it actually is; however, it wouldn't give me enough hours by itself.
Second, a guy I know just told me his workplace is taking referrals for full-time work, and he would like to refer me if I want the job. It would be a third shift factory job...meaning that my sleep schedule will get messed up really fast and that I would be BANKING. He said it would sometimes require weekend work, but because it's third shift, it wouldn't interfere with me leading worship on Sunday mornings nor with the job at the nature center, if I can get either/both of them. The main issue is my upcoming trip to Colorado. Had I known my park ranger job would end so suddenly, I would've bought my ticket sooner and planned it for this month instead of the beginning of October. I almost certainly won't be able to get the factory job if I tell them I need that week-and-a-half off, so I will need to get referred sometime around when I get back to Lansing...and they might not be hiring anymore at that point. My friend who told me doesn't know just yet when the hiring is happening; he'll find out for me soon.
I also put in an application to a security company where one of my good friends works and to two other Ingham County parks, but I haven't heard back from them yet. So far the two jobs above are my best bet, and I would love to land at least one of them. If I only get the nature center job, I could at least try to pick up more hours at Family Christian Store...as much as I don't want to go back there.
Anyway, I could really use prayer for all this. The factory job would be the best option because I need to save money and start paying things off. If I don't get any of these jobs, I'm in a pretty bad situation, and I don't really know what I will do. Thank you.
Peace.
First, I have an interview this Friday at the Harris Nature Center in Okemos. I already know the workers there and have been volunteering there for a number of years, so I have a good foot in the door to land the position. The job itself would be part time; mostly weekend work from what I know so far. This is exactly the kind of job I want in regards to what it actually is; however, it wouldn't give me enough hours by itself.
Second, a guy I know just told me his workplace is taking referrals for full-time work, and he would like to refer me if I want the job. It would be a third shift factory job...meaning that my sleep schedule will get messed up really fast and that I would be BANKING. He said it would sometimes require weekend work, but because it's third shift, it wouldn't interfere with me leading worship on Sunday mornings nor with the job at the nature center, if I can get either/both of them. The main issue is my upcoming trip to Colorado. Had I known my park ranger job would end so suddenly, I would've bought my ticket sooner and planned it for this month instead of the beginning of October. I almost certainly won't be able to get the factory job if I tell them I need that week-and-a-half off, so I will need to get referred sometime around when I get back to Lansing...and they might not be hiring anymore at that point. My friend who told me doesn't know just yet when the hiring is happening; he'll find out for me soon.
I also put in an application to a security company where one of my good friends works and to two other Ingham County parks, but I haven't heard back from them yet. So far the two jobs above are my best bet, and I would love to land at least one of them. If I only get the nature center job, I could at least try to pick up more hours at Family Christian Store...as much as I don't want to go back there.
Anyway, I could really use prayer for all this. The factory job would be the best option because I need to save money and start paying things off. If I don't get any of these jobs, I'm in a pretty bad situation, and I don't really know what I will do. Thank you.
Peace.
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
Saving
So, as I mentioned briefly in a previous post, I need to start saving money better. This is becoming more real to me each day now, it seems. I haven't been living frivolously, but I have been fairly liberal with my spending when it comes to, say, picking up the tab. For example: my usual way of convincing someone to go to Applebee's is telling them their appetiser will be free, hehe. I also have been traveling around the Lansing area a bit more lately, thus spending more money on gas, especially since I own a minivan.
Well, as I started realising these things and decided to cut back as best as I could (go to the Bee's less, try to drive around less if possible, etc.), of course, something goes wrong. For those who haven't already heard, I got into a car accident this past weekend, and the days of the Man Van are finally over. Now I get to bum rides all over the place (including my early-morning job, which I hate asking people to take me to), and I'll probably soon be making car payments on my next car (probably a Taurus, if this week goes as I expect it to...).
Kinda sucks, but I'm learning humility in this. I've noticed a lot of pride growing in me lately, and this is exactly the sort of thing that I need to bring me back to reality. I've also been asking God for patience lately...which is ALWAYS a dangerous prayer, and now it seems I'm waiting around all the time.
This is also a good thing in other ways (at least in my head). I will be saving a lot of money on gas if this goes right, and my "new" car will probably be more reliable than the van. I loved being able to haul around people and all sorts of stuff in my van, which I won't be able to do any longer, but I think I'm ready for the switch. This may also help me whittle down the amount of junk that I have and really force me to keep less stuff around.
I was walking to McDonald's today while talking to one of my good friends on the phone. We both are trying to save money for some end-of-the-summer events (he's probably going to go teach in China with another good friend of ours; I will explain mine in a bit), and we've both realised that we need to make some major lifestyle changes in order to prepare better. I mentioned that I was passing a grocery store, and I should probably get food there instead of at McDonald's. He replied, "Well, which one is going to save you more money in the long run?"
Dangit.
Needless to say, I turned back to the grocery store and bought at least a week's worth of meals...and I definitely made the right choice. I plan on not spending any more money on food for at least a week, and no more on gas for longer (Obviously I don't have a car right now, but if I get another one soon, I will probably try to siphon the gas out of my van's tank, which is full. Start with plenty of gas, getting better gas mileage...I think that's a good start). My paycheck at the end of this week should also come close to doubling what I currently have in my bank account, so I think if I really buckle down and start living more wisely, I will be able to start claiming some of my bills from my mom (who has helped me enormously in all of this) and still be saving money up.
The goal:
Move out West by 2015.
This is a little sooner than the four years I was thinking for the past several months, but I think this is still a reasonable goal...and who knows, maybe God will grant me to move sooner. I would love that.
As far as what I'm saving for this summer, I really want to get back out West for just a little while again. Goodness, I feel such a strong pull to be out there...anyway, one of my friends who lives in Colorado Springs has also been encouraging me to visit and try to get things sorted out, as they took their own leap of faith and moved there last summer, and God has been doing great things with it.
So, I've been researching airplane ticket costs from Detroit to Colorado Springs (which has proven to be the cheapest flight), and I can get a round-trip ticket for $277. Not too bad considering how much I would spend on other forms of travel. If I'm able to save enough this summer, I think I'm really going to try to do this.
It's about time to get a real adventure started.
Peace.
Well, as I started realising these things and decided to cut back as best as I could (go to the Bee's less, try to drive around less if possible, etc.), of course, something goes wrong. For those who haven't already heard, I got into a car accident this past weekend, and the days of the Man Van are finally over. Now I get to bum rides all over the place (including my early-morning job, which I hate asking people to take me to), and I'll probably soon be making car payments on my next car (probably a Taurus, if this week goes as I expect it to...).
Kinda sucks, but I'm learning humility in this. I've noticed a lot of pride growing in me lately, and this is exactly the sort of thing that I need to bring me back to reality. I've also been asking God for patience lately...which is ALWAYS a dangerous prayer, and now it seems I'm waiting around all the time.
This is also a good thing in other ways (at least in my head). I will be saving a lot of money on gas if this goes right, and my "new" car will probably be more reliable than the van. I loved being able to haul around people and all sorts of stuff in my van, which I won't be able to do any longer, but I think I'm ready for the switch. This may also help me whittle down the amount of junk that I have and really force me to keep less stuff around.
I was walking to McDonald's today while talking to one of my good friends on the phone. We both are trying to save money for some end-of-the-summer events (he's probably going to go teach in China with another good friend of ours; I will explain mine in a bit), and we've both realised that we need to make some major lifestyle changes in order to prepare better. I mentioned that I was passing a grocery store, and I should probably get food there instead of at McDonald's. He replied, "Well, which one is going to save you more money in the long run?"
Dangit.
Needless to say, I turned back to the grocery store and bought at least a week's worth of meals...and I definitely made the right choice. I plan on not spending any more money on food for at least a week, and no more on gas for longer (Obviously I don't have a car right now, but if I get another one soon, I will probably try to siphon the gas out of my van's tank, which is full. Start with plenty of gas, getting better gas mileage...I think that's a good start). My paycheck at the end of this week should also come close to doubling what I currently have in my bank account, so I think if I really buckle down and start living more wisely, I will be able to start claiming some of my bills from my mom (who has helped me enormously in all of this) and still be saving money up.
The goal:
Move out West by 2015.
This is a little sooner than the four years I was thinking for the past several months, but I think this is still a reasonable goal...and who knows, maybe God will grant me to move sooner. I would love that.
As far as what I'm saving for this summer, I really want to get back out West for just a little while again. Goodness, I feel such a strong pull to be out there...anyway, one of my friends who lives in Colorado Springs has also been encouraging me to visit and try to get things sorted out, as they took their own leap of faith and moved there last summer, and God has been doing great things with it.
So, I've been researching airplane ticket costs from Detroit to Colorado Springs (which has proven to be the cheapest flight), and I can get a round-trip ticket for $277. Not too bad considering how much I would spend on other forms of travel. If I'm able to save enough this summer, I think I'm really going to try to do this.
It's about time to get a real adventure started.
Peace.
Friday, May 25, 2012
Work ethic (Rated PG for brief mild language)
So, this is sort of a follow-up to my last post in that it's expounding more on some of the ways God has been pushing me to give up my "childish ways," as Paul puts it. Specifically, I've found new motivation to try to glorify Him in my work by doing my best at it. Now, this may seem like an old message (and it is), but it's a serious problem for me. I'm pretty skilled in the art of relaxation, which is great in itself, but when it overflows into my job, there's trouble.
Also...maybe this is only in my group of friends, but it seems to me like my generation is plagued by the spirit of half-assed work. I'm not saying all of them, because I know some crazy workaholics my age, but I think in general this is true. I know I have to push myself really hard not to cut corners in my job, take too many breaks, etc. This park ranger job especially could be really easy to do poorly, and I think God put me in it on purpose. One of the more obviously non-Christian guys I work with is also the guy with the strongest work ethic, and the only other person who I think may know Jesus happens to be the laziest guy on the crew. Funny how that works.
When I realised that the guy who doesn't express any hope for eternity was a harder worker than me, I knew something was wrong. God's timing is so good. All the other times I've heard messages about how Christians should work their hardest for the glory of God, I simply dismissed them because I was lazy. Now that God has been working in me and making me less lazy, I'm finally starting to get it (and WANT it). Honestly, just taking this much time to write this post is making me want to go do something more productive.
I just got done working about 52 hours this week, which might be the most I've worked in a single week, and I feel great about it. I know I won't always feel so good about working so much, but I know God is doing something in me which will last, something for my good and His glory. Now I just need to save money better, haha.
Peace.
Also...maybe this is only in my group of friends, but it seems to me like my generation is plagued by the spirit of half-assed work. I'm not saying all of them, because I know some crazy workaholics my age, but I think in general this is true. I know I have to push myself really hard not to cut corners in my job, take too many breaks, etc. This park ranger job especially could be really easy to do poorly, and I think God put me in it on purpose. One of the more obviously non-Christian guys I work with is also the guy with the strongest work ethic, and the only other person who I think may know Jesus happens to be the laziest guy on the crew. Funny how that works.
When I realised that the guy who doesn't express any hope for eternity was a harder worker than me, I knew something was wrong. God's timing is so good. All the other times I've heard messages about how Christians should work their hardest for the glory of God, I simply dismissed them because I was lazy. Now that God has been working in me and making me less lazy, I'm finally starting to get it (and WANT it). Honestly, just taking this much time to write this post is making me want to go do something more productive.
I just got done working about 52 hours this week, which might be the most I've worked in a single week, and I feel great about it. I know I won't always feel so good about working so much, but I know God is doing something in me which will last, something for my good and His glory. Now I just need to save money better, haha.
Peace.
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
My supervisor
So, as I've said in previous posts, my park ranger job is going well. One of the most interesting and unexpected aspects of it has been the interactions I've had with my supervisor.
On one of my first training shifts, I came to find out I remind him a little of his grandfather: a religious man who enjoys a good pipe-smoke. Just the other day, I discovered we both are really into birds when I impressed him by identifying a Sharp-shinned Hawk on the River Trail.
Very interestingly: although I believe he came from your average mid-Michigan farming family, he knows quite a bit about the homeless and also seems to have a good bit of compassion for them. When they come up in conversation (which is semi-frequently, as we're working in areas of Lansing where the homeless can actually stay without being bothered by others), he usually ends up explaining something about them or defending them.
One thing that really got me thinking was a statement he made just recently. We were driving along the River Trail in the Gator and passed an African-American woman. Both of us waved and smiled (the unspoken rule for greeting everyone when we're working so we don't seem like we're tools), but the woman just looked away. After we passed her, my supervisor said, "And that is why racism will never die." He went on to explain that's pretty much the reaction he gets from most African-Americans while he's at work, and how he wishes it was different.
I wonder if this guy studied sociology in college.
As I thought about what he said, it occurred to me that racism seems to have changed since a few thousand years ago (Disclaimer: I haven't studied any of this in depth, so maybe I'm way off base and need to be corrected, but these are the thoughts I had). When I read about racism in the ancient world, it seems like it was less focused on skin colour in particular and more on specific cultures. One example would be the Jews and the Samaritans in Biblical times. They were probably very similar as far as physical appearance goes, but they were totally separate cultures, and hated each other. If racism really was more culturally-based (again, I may be wrong in thinking this), then certain "racisms" would naturally die out, as cultures eventually disintegrate. If racism is based on skin colour, however, what is the end point? When every colour eventually gets mixed into one? haha. Seriously, though, I can see why someone might say it will never die (I think my logic is good, I just don't know if my facts are, so feel free to correct me in the comments).
In the end, however, I am convinced that it will die. I believe God when He says in Scripture that Christ will come again, and there will be a new heaven and a new earth, and we will receive new bodies. Everything will be refreshed, including our relationships with Him and each other. Then we will see the death of racism, and it will be another reason to worship God.
Peace.
P.S.: I would LOVE to know who keeps searching for my blog in a Russian search engine (yes, I know you're there)...if you could just leave a comment and let me know, I'm very curious. I don't even have to publish the comment if you don't want me to...I just would really like to know!
On one of my first training shifts, I came to find out I remind him a little of his grandfather: a religious man who enjoys a good pipe-smoke. Just the other day, I discovered we both are really into birds when I impressed him by identifying a Sharp-shinned Hawk on the River Trail.
Very interestingly: although I believe he came from your average mid-Michigan farming family, he knows quite a bit about the homeless and also seems to have a good bit of compassion for them. When they come up in conversation (which is semi-frequently, as we're working in areas of Lansing where the homeless can actually stay without being bothered by others), he usually ends up explaining something about them or defending them.
One thing that really got me thinking was a statement he made just recently. We were driving along the River Trail in the Gator and passed an African-American woman. Both of us waved and smiled (the unspoken rule for greeting everyone when we're working so we don't seem like we're tools), but the woman just looked away. After we passed her, my supervisor said, "And that is why racism will never die." He went on to explain that's pretty much the reaction he gets from most African-Americans while he's at work, and how he wishes it was different.
I wonder if this guy studied sociology in college.
As I thought about what he said, it occurred to me that racism seems to have changed since a few thousand years ago (Disclaimer: I haven't studied any of this in depth, so maybe I'm way off base and need to be corrected, but these are the thoughts I had). When I read about racism in the ancient world, it seems like it was less focused on skin colour in particular and more on specific cultures. One example would be the Jews and the Samaritans in Biblical times. They were probably very similar as far as physical appearance goes, but they were totally separate cultures, and hated each other. If racism really was more culturally-based (again, I may be wrong in thinking this), then certain "racisms" would naturally die out, as cultures eventually disintegrate. If racism is based on skin colour, however, what is the end point? When every colour eventually gets mixed into one? haha. Seriously, though, I can see why someone might say it will never die (I think my logic is good, I just don't know if my facts are, so feel free to correct me in the comments).
In the end, however, I am convinced that it will die. I believe God when He says in Scripture that Christ will come again, and there will be a new heaven and a new earth, and we will receive new bodies. Everything will be refreshed, including our relationships with Him and each other. Then we will see the death of racism, and it will be another reason to worship God.
Peace.
P.S.: I would LOVE to know who keeps searching for my blog in a Russian search engine (yes, I know you're there)...if you could just leave a comment and let me know, I'm very curious. I don't even have to publish the comment if you don't want me to...I just would really like to know!
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
Yo ho, yo ho, a park ranger's life for me...
So, this park ranger job has been pretty interesting so far. I decided I would chronicle some highlights here from the past couple months.
About a month ago: Painting over some graffiti near LCC campus when this crazy old guy who looks like a war veteran rolls up in his wheelchair and exclaims, "Looks like a cover-up to me! I guess I'm okay with this one."
For the first two months: Kept finding strange things under a certain pine tree in one of the parks, including halves of uneaten oranges, the insides of a pumpkin and the empty shell tossed aside, whole heads of broccoli, and lots of bottles of various kinds of booze. Someone really knows how to have a good time...I guess.
Last week: Pretty sure I found a coelacanth head on the River Trail. Not sure why prehistoric fish would be hanging out in the Grand River, but this thing was HUGE...okay, maybe it wasn't that big, but I was still weirded out.
Today: Lady comes up to me and starts telling me about some park I've never heard of and how the dead trees need to be taken care of and something needs to be done about the deer, because there's too many and it's not healthy for them. I told her the park itself is probably a city park, one that the county isn't taking care of, and she should contact the DNR about the deer. "Well, where is the city park headquarters?" "Uhh...somewhere in downtown Lansing." I am SO HELPFUL.
Since at least four weeks ago: A coworker and I kept finding glass in parking lots along the River Trail from people breaking into cars. It was getting particularly bad last week, until my coworker told me this past Monday that the guy had been caught (yes, singular, not plural), and he had been arrested for breaking into about NINTEY-TWO CARS. Holy crap.
Normally, I have to paint over graffiti when I find it...this doesn't apply as much to graffiti on the ground, though, and even less when somebody makes a stencil of the Skyrim logo and spraypaints it black all over the place. Awesome.
It's weird...I get more friendly conversation from complete strangers on the trail, but every so often when I see someone I actually kind of know, there's no acknowledgement. Funny how that works.
I guess that's it for now; there's more I can't remember, and I'm sure more that will happen. It's been a great job so far, especially for just a temporary one.
Peace.
About a month ago: Painting over some graffiti near LCC campus when this crazy old guy who looks like a war veteran rolls up in his wheelchair and exclaims, "Looks like a cover-up to me! I guess I'm okay with this one."
For the first two months: Kept finding strange things under a certain pine tree in one of the parks, including halves of uneaten oranges, the insides of a pumpkin and the empty shell tossed aside, whole heads of broccoli, and lots of bottles of various kinds of booze. Someone really knows how to have a good time...I guess.
Last week: Pretty sure I found a coelacanth head on the River Trail. Not sure why prehistoric fish would be hanging out in the Grand River, but this thing was HUGE...okay, maybe it wasn't that big, but I was still weirded out.
Today: Lady comes up to me and starts telling me about some park I've never heard of and how the dead trees need to be taken care of and something needs to be done about the deer, because there's too many and it's not healthy for them. I told her the park itself is probably a city park, one that the county isn't taking care of, and she should contact the DNR about the deer. "Well, where is the city park headquarters?" "Uhh...somewhere in downtown Lansing." I am SO HELPFUL.
Since at least four weeks ago: A coworker and I kept finding glass in parking lots along the River Trail from people breaking into cars. It was getting particularly bad last week, until my coworker told me this past Monday that the guy had been caught (yes, singular, not plural), and he had been arrested for breaking into about NINTEY-TWO CARS. Holy crap.
Normally, I have to paint over graffiti when I find it...this doesn't apply as much to graffiti on the ground, though, and even less when somebody makes a stencil of the Skyrim logo and spraypaints it black all over the place. Awesome.
It's weird...I get more friendly conversation from complete strangers on the trail, but every so often when I see someone I actually kind of know, there's no acknowledgement. Funny how that works.
I guess that's it for now; there's more I can't remember, and I'm sure more that will happen. It's been a great job so far, especially for just a temporary one.
Peace.
Friday, January 20, 2012
Oh, my life...
So, I've had a lot of "changes of plans" since my trip out West this summer. Today was another one. I'm currently taking an online algebra class, and was scheduled to start a chemistry class next week. My goal was to get a degree in environmental biology/zoology at MSU within the next few years, and work part-time jobs on the side.
Notice the abundance of the word "was" throughout that statement.
I've been doing some thinking about all this the past few days, and I've realised several of my long-term goals aren't very compatible with each other. For example, if I want to move out West, getting a degree and doing part-time jobs here might actually hinder me. I'll still be in a pretty weak place financially and I won't have much job experience if I'm just doing part-time jobs. In other words, by the time I finish the degree and want to move out West, I won't actually be able to. My current job search is going really poorly right now because I've been saying "no" to a lot of good full-time work.
One of my current goals career-wise is becoming a conservation officer with the DNR within the year. However, this would be a full-time job, and if I'm taking classes all year round, why should I even continue the process of trying to get into that sort of work?
A good conversation with my mom helped me focus these thoughts into a more exact plan: dropping the upcoming chemistry class, start hardcore looking for work with an even broader scope, and finish my online class. I'm confident I'll be able to have SOME kind of work in with the DNR by the summer, even if it's just seasonal...the issue is getting a job between now and then.
Prayers for all of this would be greatly appreciated.
Peace.
Notice the abundance of the word "was" throughout that statement.
I've been doing some thinking about all this the past few days, and I've realised several of my long-term goals aren't very compatible with each other. For example, if I want to move out West, getting a degree and doing part-time jobs here might actually hinder me. I'll still be in a pretty weak place financially and I won't have much job experience if I'm just doing part-time jobs. In other words, by the time I finish the degree and want to move out West, I won't actually be able to. My current job search is going really poorly right now because I've been saying "no" to a lot of good full-time work.
One of my current goals career-wise is becoming a conservation officer with the DNR within the year. However, this would be a full-time job, and if I'm taking classes all year round, why should I even continue the process of trying to get into that sort of work?
A good conversation with my mom helped me focus these thoughts into a more exact plan: dropping the upcoming chemistry class, start hardcore looking for work with an even broader scope, and finish my online class. I'm confident I'll be able to have SOME kind of work in with the DNR by the summer, even if it's just seasonal...the issue is getting a job between now and then.
Prayers for all of this would be greatly appreciated.
Peace.
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
New house
So, I am finally finished at SAU. This has been an excellent few days so far. Once again, my van is in the shop (this time for minor repairs), but I've been keeping myself busy. I only have one piece of furniture left to bring to my new room in Lansing, and I've been working on getting my bookshelves organised and cleaning up the mess I brought back from my apartment in SAU. Today was a massive cleaning day in that regard. There's still work to be done, but I'm just happy I'm finally here. My new living situation feels so much better than living on campus. Here's why:
1. One of my roommates is excessively anal about keeping the place clean. My habits and personality are somewhat fluid, so I've been able to keep my room cleaner than usual and help keep the rest of the house clean.
2. This is a fairly permanent situation. It's the first time since I started college that all of my clothes, books, electronics, furniture, and other things I need/want are all in the same place, and aren't going anywhere anytime soon.
3. Now I live closer to everything I do. I live close to the church I lead worship at (I live with one of my pastors, in fact), I live close to (but not with) my family, I live close to all my friends in Lansing, I live close to food (which is nice), I live close to a lot of job opportunities (which I'm trying to take advantage of), and I live closer to my friends in Grand Rapids and Troy.
4. The house is generally pretty quiet. I can get all kinds of work done throughout the day and be relatively undisturbed the entire time. Our friends generally visit in small herds at night, so even on more social days, most of the day is quiet. I've been able to read, practice my guitar, and spend time with God more now that I'm here.
In short, this is probably my favorite place I've lived so far. I love it, and I'm blessed to be here.
Peace.
1. One of my roommates is excessively anal about keeping the place clean. My habits and personality are somewhat fluid, so I've been able to keep my room cleaner than usual and help keep the rest of the house clean.
2. This is a fairly permanent situation. It's the first time since I started college that all of my clothes, books, electronics, furniture, and other things I need/want are all in the same place, and aren't going anywhere anytime soon.
3. Now I live closer to everything I do. I live close to the church I lead worship at (I live with one of my pastors, in fact), I live close to (but not with) my family, I live close to all my friends in Lansing, I live close to food (which is nice), I live close to a lot of job opportunities (which I'm trying to take advantage of), and I live closer to my friends in Grand Rapids and Troy.
4. The house is generally pretty quiet. I can get all kinds of work done throughout the day and be relatively undisturbed the entire time. Our friends generally visit in small herds at night, so even on more social days, most of the day is quiet. I've been able to read, practice my guitar, and spend time with God more now that I'm here.
In short, this is probably my favorite place I've lived so far. I love it, and I'm blessed to be here.
Peace.
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