I spent four plus hours in a car yesterday driving across the desert alone.  This is always a very contemplative time for me.  There are times when I don't have music on, as I enjoy the solitude and opportunity to think through issues or situations that might be brewing.  And I guess it would be easy to feel sorry for oneself, given enough wrong self-brew time.

One thing I have learned (the hard way) over the years, is that there is no room for self-pity in an active and busy mind.  A job can certainly keep you occupied, but that doesn't ensure a happy heart or simple satisfaction.   A career, being different than a job, can not only keep you occupied but also fulfilled - especially when the chosen career has become a calling.  When we feel a sense of responsibility to our supervisor or co-workers or those whom we serve then there is a tendency to really apply oneself and follow-up and follow-through.

I overheard my mom talking to my brother on the phone yesterday.  He had called early in the morning to see how her recent surgery had gone and to inquire about her recovery.  She was no nonsense about the pain but said that she was feeling better.   She rushed the tail-end of the conversation because she needed to get out the door to perform her morning duties as School Crossing Guard employed by the police department.  I guess my brother balked and said she should still be resting because my mom answered loud and clear, "There are 500 children depending on me, it is my responsibility to make sure they get to school safely."

There was obviously no further discussion as her intentions were non-negotiable.  I learned a long time ago to just do what mom wants and agree with what she says - not everything of course, but when it comes to her own life, her own choices, she has a pretty good idea of her own game plan.  Her sense of responsibility, her drive to not only fulfill her duties but to do them well, and her need to stay active keep her busy, healthy, and happy.

She has been almost hit by stupid drivers, she has been cussed out, she has flipped off multiple times, and she cannot respond with anything, not even a wave.  I am sure she adds a smile just to irk the transgressors even further.  Yet she still gets out there and performs her duties, despite sickness and the ignorance and utter stupidity of others.   If only we couldn't all be as committed to our work and those to whom we serve.  What are your duties?  Do you get them done in a timely manner?  Do you do them with a smile or a drive-by flip off?  Do you do them well?   Are you where you want to be, doing what you want to do? 

Do a little committed self-brew, the answers may surprise you.

by rayannethorn