The view from time-out land

I called a time-out at the end of Jan 2005. A time-out after 13 years of IT consulting career at a blistering pace, and along the way - falling in love, getting married, begetting 2 daughters, completing an MBA.

I left a cushy job after a reasonably successful career with an IBM organization. It was in response to what I felt as a need to call a time-out to review my personal priorities, where I am headed, what talents have I gained, and where I can contribute best in the next phase of my life.

So here I am in Time-Out land. No job, no pay, no distractions, & plenty of time with my daughters. Watching them do what they do growing up in these toddler years can be a joy easily missed when I was previously rushing about with work and other commitments. I thank God for the time He has given me to spend with these 2 kids. Although I would rather be working any time, I thank God for this wonderful opportunity. Not just time with my family, but time with Him.

Not many people in my position would call for a time-out like this. Most people would probably move on to a higher level in their career and work all the way till retirement; it's probably considered taboo at best or impractical at worst to resign without a job in one's prime at a contentious time like this.

However, in the scheme of eternity, I think pausing to think for a moment should not bring about a guilty conscience. How often can we really think, plan or pray without distractions? Very seldom in the last 13 years of work life. Even vacations and leave days were hurried affairs.

In the last one month or so, I have found time to pray and immerse myself in God's presence. Listening, trusting, planning, praying. I do believe God has a plan for me in this time-out and thereafter. I will not stay at the mountain top longer than necessary. Like the eagle who waits for the gust of wind to take off again, I am waiting for the Lord so that I can once again mount on wings like the eagle, so that I shall run and not grow weary, walk and not be faint. I will in the mean time listen and scan the horizon. I believe the next phase of my life will be even more fulfilling, not inwardly, but outwardly, reaching out & touching lives.

Join me for the next update in my life.

May God bless you.

Category: Sounding Board, cf_