“…I never felt like I was actually working for a living…”

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Work vs. Occupation: In my very formative years… and the first few jobs that I had… they were “just a job”; the kind with no future, little responsibility, nothing reliable, and paltry pay. Probably the same kind of “job” that most of us find ourselves occupying our entire work history. That era went from 1953 until 1961.

In 1961, I was very fortunate, and blessed, to have landed a position as a “payroll clerk” associated with the mining industry…making $60.00 per week. In order to develop my skill-sets, I started going to “night-school” to study accounting. A year later, at age 22, I was an accountant associated with a watch manufacturer… making $150.00 per week, leaving 5 years later as Payroll Supervisor making $300.00 per week. In 1967, I was a Division Accounting Supervisor, and within a year, was “acting” Division Chief Accountant of a national manufacturer…still going to night school, and only 28. By 1971, at age 32, I was VP & Corporate Controller of a statewide distributor… making $35K per year….and just fresh out of college.

From all of this… I was further blessed by going into the real estate industry, first as an employee, then partner, and then starting my own business. By 1984, I was a self-employed, “small real estate developer” …with an income now exceeding $100K per year. Here’s my point… throughout this entire 25 year period… I NEVER had a “job,” rather… just an occupation.

I never felt like I was actually working for a living, though very often 60-70 hour weeks. I felt like I was on a 25 year vacation. I enjoyed every minute of it. Sure, I was a slave to my career… who isn’t? I share these facts with you, to emphasize that “we can all get ahead” in our careers, our family, and our spiritual life… when we make the DECISION… to be happy, to be joyful, to work hard, to be committed, diligent, and patient, and to treat others as you wish to be treated.

When you have great joy in your work; a happy home life; and have a solid spiritual life… then what else does one need? The sky is the limit, but everlasting life is the prize. …Blessings…cjlb…4/4/16.