June 27th Newsletter - Dream Careers and Jobs That Make You Cry

Do you have goals? I suppose everyone does. My goals have evolved quite dramatically during my 58 revolutions around the sun. As a high school senior, I thought working in a third world country helping develop more proficient methods of farming was my calling. I was encouraged when my term paper outlining just such a trip earned me my first 4.0 at Michigan State University. 

Then came along a husband closely followed by six children. My vision of traveling and helping the world were replaced with keeping the little humans I had brought into this world fed and safe. My education was put on hold. Raising six children was difficult work, but filled my heart with pride and love. 

The father of my children worked extremely hard so I was able to stay home with our young family. When I entered the work force as our youngest entered school,  it was because I wanted to, not because I had to. Now, in 2021, I am faced with the reality that it takes two incomes to purchase and maintain a home. The children are grown and my nest  is empty. Now I find myself once again wondering what career path I want to peruse. 

Currently I work with an amazing team at an animal emergency hospital. I love my coworkers and the work we do. I struggle with how hurtful pet owners can be us, the people who are trying to help their pets. Coworkers tell me not to take the mean comments personally. Most times I am able to do this. Even so, at least twice a week I end up crying on the drive home after my shift. This is not how I want to spend the rest of my working days. 

Next Week we will look at the options I am considering. Will what my heart longs to do be a big enough contribution to fulfill my dreams for the second half of my life?