Hello!! For all of you who read this blog and follow the thoughts, treasures, happenings and beauties of my wife, Polly; this is Mr. Blessing. She offered (if that is what you want to call it) that I should write this blog addition. As you have already read, I lost my job of almost 15 years this past December. Not my plan but God's of course. It is always His ways that are best and His timing is perfect even if we do not see it at the exact point in time. It was really the only true job I ever had. Basically, my career job right out of college. It was all I knew for so long. Paid for my cars, clothes, wedding, my wife's first wedding gift (our 1st house), etc, etc. All was going great; so I thought. A small lay off occurred and the ensuing conversation with my immediate boss assured me that I was not going to get laid off and I was one of the best project managers they had. I knew of others who had been laid off and heard the news reports of how bad it was getting but of course, I was assured that I would not be laid off. I was working from home for the past 2 years; getting spoiled (an answer to many years of praying). I used to commute for many years 4 hours a day. But that was my responsibility; my career; me supporting my family. But then that dreaded call came and it was over. All I had known for so long was gone; done and over. I sat at the top of the stairs, crying and calling to my lovely. My mind wandering as to what I needed to do next, what job could I find, how we would pay for "take it for granted" needs and wants. (I am a planner and perfectionist so changes of this nature make me go into a planning sputter). But as we talked, thought, and exhausted the terribleness; well at least in my mind I was free. Free from a job that I really did not like; I wanted more, much more. I want it all. I want to be with my wife, my kids, working from home, in a job that matters and not working for someone else.I had prayed for a long time for my Lord God to give me a new beginning; something that mattered in life and something that my wife and I could create, build and work together and thus help others. She is after all my best friend and I want to be with her as much as I can while God still gives us breath. Yet, I am supposed to be the provider; the one taking care of the family and now the tables in a sense have turned. I am now the one looking for a job (and not having much success), doing all the house cleaning, running around and supporting my wife as she continues to create and share with all of you. My wife and I now find ourselves on a new plan; one that we hope and believe God will bless so we can bless others. I truly want to do something and create something that will give back to all those involved. I am also a simple person when it comes to faith. Yes, I know that there are many things about God and all that He created; His timing, His plans that I do not and cannot understand and many people run from Him because they feel the same way but it is very simple for me. God created me, He knows me (all of me), He did die just for me and He will take care of me and my family. I have to be obedient and trust Him. I trust Him to do this because He promised to do so. Maybe not in the way that I always think is best but in His wonderful and mysterious way; because He knows what is best!!!!
Ladies that are reading this and have husbands that are unemployed....things are not great right now out there and men have a natural yearning to provide for their families; at least the men I know. Give them encouragement, love and support; we are missing something when we are not providing the way we feel we should. We do not want to cut things out and make changes; we want to give our families everything we can so do not beat them up for having a hard time finding a job. Let them support in any way that they can; whether that may be housecleaning for those men who enjoy that, doing errands etc. Make them feel important no matter how they are supporting you. It is a big change for them.
Thanks for reading.....I will talk to you soon. -Stephen
Do not remember the former things, Nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing, Now it will spring forth; Do you not perceive it? I will even make a road in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. (Is 43:18-19)
Stephen,
ReplyDeleteThat was a very thought provoking and moving post...and a true reminder to us all that God is in control...even when it all may seem otherwise through out small view. Thank you for being so open, honest and humble...it is refreshing to see in a world that is so the opposite. And I am very excited to work with you and Polly in the future and hopefully create something wonderful together! I will pray for you, Polly and your family...and the new venture ahead...for God's abundant blessings and love poured out over all of you! Thanks for all that you both do and for your servants' hearts.
~Alice
Wow Stephen..that was a great post.
ReplyDeleteYears ago when we lived in CO..my DH got laid off and I had to take a job (actually 2) to help pay the bills...and unfortunately after quite a while of not being able to find employment my DH fell into a deep depression. It did take a toll on our family but most of all it brought us closer to God. So we know it happened for a reason...it was a season we needed to go through to see how Blessed we truly were and to be Thankful for what we did have. That is when we realized how rich we truly were.
We are in a different Season right now, but we are closer to God than we ever have been.
Blessings,
Robin
Same thing happened to this family but our kids came through to help us while we were still in shock. Truly we survived well and got more blessings than we could possibly share with you because of it. We're not semi-retired and having a wonderful life. NO bills but out home and utilities. We have been truly blessed beyond measure. I always trust the promises of the Lord, chickee. He cannot break a promise. I wish you well and have faith for the good things to happen
ReplyDeleteSmooches,
Connie
That was an awesome post. Thanks for putting your feeling out there.
ReplyDeleteIt has been slow for us as well. My husband is a realtor, and we all know how that has been. I began a homecleaning business and he is right in there cleaning bathrooms with me! I so appreciate the Lord opening this door while the real estate has been slow.
What a beautiful post, Steve.
ReplyDeleteIsn't it freeing that once we've given ourselves permission, we can admit that job was not for me? I believe a weight's been lifted for you (although hard, I know) and you're now free to fully dream that dream that's been trying to show itself to you and smile. The Lord knows what is best, that I know for sure for each day we are blessed so fully.
What a joy to hear from you. Looking forward to hearing all your exciting plans for you & your best friend (hi Polly!). I will continue to pray for you and your family and truly look forward to all the excitement and dreams that can now be fully lived.
~Tracie
Mr Blessing, you sound like my biggest blessing, my dear husband. He too lost his job, in Sept. of last year and is still searching for a replacement. I can tell you that God has provided in many, many ways for us and I pray the same for you. Keep trusting, don't get discouraged. I will be praying for your family and I know that all things work together for good to those who trust God. God sometimes closes a door to lead us through a better one, an unexpected one. I pray you find the kind of work that you will find fulfillment and blessing in. This could be a great opportunity to go in a new direction!
ReplyDeleteStephen, How awesome that you would share here. Our family has been living in this very difficult place for about 3 years (we own and operate a land surveying and land development business) Though it has been SO hard, God has been faithful. I pray you will feel that also. Sincerely, Rachel
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful post.
ReplyDeleteI can't thank you enough.
While my husband and I are still (by the grace of God) gainfully employed - I do have a close family member who recently lost his job and is struggling with supporting his wife and daughter.
Thank you.
I will pass your advice and wisdom on to him.
Thanks again.
God bless and keep you.
God always supplies us with our needs and a lot of our wants. This recession isn't affecting only us in America but across other countries as well. I believe we will see the birth of many new smaller companies and the emerging of "closet entrepreneurs". Those larger companies that once forced the small business man to close are now themselves closing. Never give up hope as we know Hope is alive in Him!
ReplyDeleteMany prayers and blessings,
Sher
What a beautiful and heartfelt post. As many of the other comments have said...God has a plan, and although it sometimes doesn't look like you'll find your way, He will show you the way. I truly believe if you talk to Him and put all your faith in Him...God WILL answer.
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing your heartfelt post. God does have a plan... and it is a good one. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
ReplyDeleteMr Blessing,
ReplyDeleteThank you for stepping into this girly blogland to share your heart with us. It is good to be encouraged of all of this from your perspective.
We are reminded daily to trust and just do *today* what is ours to do *today*.
It is my dream to work side by side with my husband...
Rene'
Thank you so much for the words of encouragement Mr Blessings. We are almost down the last of our savings. Husband is a real estate broker and mortgage broker and we all know it's a very slow market. Husband isn't saved. He does think all will be well:) I know it WILL. God has been providing and continues. You and Polly are such blessings to many of us out here.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much.
Warmly,
Deb
It was great to hear from one of the husbands, although I'm sorry it had to be under these circumstances. You are right. It is God's will, timing, and plan. I know He can and will turn this into something positive for you. Would you mind if I sent over a "blog award" ? With your great attitude, you deserve it! Just stop by my blog and you will see!
ReplyDeleteHope things go better for you soon...if they haven't already.
Jillian
Oops! I forgot to mention the award will be posted on Saturday. :) If you don't participate in "blog awards" I understand. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful post~I think this speaks to so many. Many prayers to you and your family.
ReplyDeleteWords escape me. Beautiful post. Thank you ~ Eileen
ReplyDeleteStephen aka Mr. Blessing,
ReplyDeleteGod Bless you for sharing your heart with us. My honey and I are in much the same boat. Yours words have blessed me, as I know I have been doing the right thing. My honey has taken over Kitchen duties, as is my son. (My son was injured in Iraq and is young and facing the same devestation of loosing his career, and is seeking to find himself again) I do my very best to let them do . . . in years past I was the main house caregiver, now the guys take turn vacuuming. *smile*
My prayers are with you, keep your faith.
Hugs
Renee
My prayers are with you. My husband lost his job a few years ago and we almost lost our home. He was so calm. I was a wreck. I really saw God's hand in it. I will continue to pray for you. Please don't give up hope. Denise
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for sharing your story, which is much like ours at the moment. My sweet hubby lost his job as well, and it has been hard. However, we strongly believe that God has something better out there for us. You are right... man wants to be the provider for his family. This was the hardest thing for my dear hubby. He always went to work, sick or not, and then not having a job to go to was devastating to him! He has been so wonderful around the house. He started doing the shopping, cooking, laundry, etc. It really made him feel like he was contributing to our family. It also helped me out tremendously, as I work (I teach). We look to God every day of our lives, and he has taken care of us! We are seeking his guidance and direction...and it has led my hubby back to school. At 51, and already having been to college, this has been quite different. However, it has been wonderful for him. He actually got a full scholarship because he helps with the music department, as he has quite the background in music! And, our college is 10 min. away.
ReplyDeleteYou hang in there, and keep seeking His will for your life. You are in my prayers!
Blessings,
Rebecca
Hi Stephen,
ReplyDeleteI know I don't know you personally...we've never met, but I truly feel for what you are going through. A close friend of mine was just laid off from her job of 10 years and the husband of another friend was laid off from a job he had since college (15 years). I know you are still probably in shock a bit...but I am soooo impressed with your faith and strength. I feel stronger just having read your words...so you are already "ministering" to those around you by sharing your faith and courage. I just know BETTER things await and I can't wait to hear what God has planned for you!
Blessings and prayers for you, Polly and your family,
Susan
Excellent post. My husband is going through the same thing. And no matter how much I tell him that he IS contributing to the household by cooking, cleaning, doing laundry, he does not consider that a contribution.
ReplyDeleteI have been in the same situation. It is very difficult. I felt like no one wanted me at first. I cried and I so hated the way the company was run. It was a blessing in discuise.
I look forward to the greatness you and your wife will create.
I was touched by your post. God tests us in so many ways, we just need to continue to have faith and he will help us through our hardships. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
ReplyDeleteHave a Blessed evening! Lisa
I know we don't know each other, but I had to leave a comment and tell you how much your post meant to me. My husband and I just had a miscarriage and though it has been hard I know also that God is going to use that in our lives to strengthen us and make us more like him. I know too that He is using it to bring glory to himself and in that I take joy. So please know you have a brother and sister in Christ that are believing along with you that He will do great and mighty things even in the hard times as we trust Him with all our hearts!
ReplyDeleteHe never said it would be easy just that He would always be there for each one of us. A beautiful post. Our faith will see us through.
ReplyDeleteWhat a touching post. I think with faith, you can get through anything, and you've already seen a blessing, the fact that you are now free from a job you didn't truly, deeply like. So although it's hard and there's a lot of uncertainty, it's also a time for opportunity, and maybe even a bit of rest for you, a time to do different things. My husband started up a new company a year ago and I do hope it survives in these disastrous times. You just never know what lies ahead...
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad I did not miss your post. My husband went through unemployment. I won't say it was fun and we'd rather not go through it again, but we both say looking back that it was a good season and one we needed. God did carry us through. I'm praying for God to open a new door that matches your heart's desire. Thank you for sharing with us, Mr. Blessing.
ReplyDelete"A bruised reed He will not break."