While these ‘risks’ were not of the financial variety, they pushed me to my limits at times.

The first big decision that went against my usual ways was agreeing to help out in the children’s ministry at my church. For a while, I was feeling the urge to get more involved and a couple of weeks after the message went out that we needed more helpers on Sunday mornings, I decided to take the plunge. I had never worked with little children before (I was helping with the 2- and 3-year-olds) so for a while I was regretting my decision due to the overwhelming nature of toddlers. I stuck with it however, of which I am glad, because it prepared me for the next risk, as well as the surprise arrival of my niece Lillian.

The next and even bigger risk was working in the SPED department at an elementary school. I was struggling to find a job and a lady at my church worked for that same school district, so she put in good word for me. Now, I never desired to work in a school, so I was already way out of my comfort zone. Add to the fact I was working with kids who have been diagnosed with learning disabilities and behavior issues, I constantly felt unqualified. This job pushed me more than any job has before but with the grace of God, I survived for two years. I learned so much about the education system, children in general, and learning disabilities that have assisted me with my niece who is having to go through speech therapy herself.

At the time, I felt like I was being placed on a never ending roller-coaster with these decisions. Looking back, I can see why these doors were open for me as I feel like a changed person, for the better. Now everyone around me is having their own kids and instead of being wary around them, I feel so comfortable and am actually enjoying my interactions with them. I also feel more prepared to put my foot down with them instead of being passive with some of their less than desirable behavior.