Faith Is An Action Word

Its been almost three months since I graduated from nursing school, and just over a month since I passed the NCLEX making me officially an RN. (YAY!) My days have consisted of sleeping in, exercising, eating, swimming in the pool, watering our many plants, applying for jobs, cleaning, laundry, etc... It was super nice and fun at first. I enjoyed the free feeling of not having to study hours on end for upcoming tests, and worrying about writing care plans or care maps.

As the days have been going by, and application after application has been filled out, my confidence in myself and my ability to become a "real" RN have wavered more than I'd like to admit. You see, every job I've had until now has practically been handed to me. I never had to stress over the endless hours that job hunting entails. I had no idea how hard it'd be to get a job, or even an interview, until now.

A few people from school have landed jobs, most had some sort of connection whether through a friend, volunteering or networking. These days, its all about WHO you know. So, I used some of my resources. Not too much luck there. Last night I realized I needed to up my game. Our instructors told us that along with applying online for positions, we should go onto the floor and introduce ourselves to the manager/supervisor. A face to go along with a name and resume speaks much louder than a "pile of papers".

So, in my prayer last night I made a deal with God. I told him that I would work harder to get a job. I would put more effort into obtaining what I have been so badly desiring. A job would not only help financially and give us insurance, but I would finally be able to do what I have worked SO hard for these last couple years. Well, God pulled through for me today, and I'll share 4 examples.

1) He healed me. I slept horribly last night, bad stomach ache. Pretty sure it was food poisoning mixed with nerves. Not quite sure. I tossed and turned. When I finally woke up, I couldn't talk I felt so nauseated. Kyle gave me a blessing, and although I did not feel better immediately, I did get better. (throwing up usually makes the tummy aches vanish!). After doing that, I felt much better. Had some crackers and apple juice and was on my way to an interview at 10 am. (How grateful I am for the power of the priesthood, and for a wonderful husband who lives worthy to use it in our home!)

2) He restored my confidence and blessed me with a job. I had an interview with a company my friend currently works for. Not hospital, and not the best pay an RN would usually get- but hey, still much higher than any other job I've had. By the end of the interview, the manager told me that he hadn't planned to hire me, but just wanted to get the process over with. (He wasn't the one who set it up, and the guy who did was out of town). However, he felt compelled to offer me the job. Throughout our conversation, I knew that this would be a good job to accept if the offer was made. So- voila. I got a job this morning. The flexibility it offers works great for my schedule now, and will work great for when I do get my goal of a full-time hospital job.

3) He taught me patience and assertiveness. My friend Kristin and I tag-teamed and went to a few places to drop of resumes and introduce ourselves to different managers and departments. I was terrified to go alone, having no idea what to say to them. We figured if we at least went together once it would help us overcome that hurdle. After driving around town for a few hours, we were wiped out. The heat was horrible. Only got to talk to one manager, and everyone else told us "Uh, that is all just done online". You see, it IS done online. To be considered you have to officially apply online. However, those who make the extra effort to go in and speak with the manager usually have the upper hand. It put a damper on the mood, we were so pumped to get out and make an impression... and that didn't so much happen. I was exhausted and just wanted to climb back into bed.

4) He taught me to persevere. Saturday I applied for a job that I wanted. Badly. It was close to home, full time, nights, and would be a GREAT place to start. I knew I needed to go in, but was so nervous I kept talking myself out of it. On my way home, I talked myself into stopping. If I didn't, I would regret it! Besides, what's the worst that could happen? They'd say sorry but its filled, or direct me to online again. haha. So, I went in, introduced myself, and the manager redirected me to the senior manager. Spoke with her, told her of my interest and that if the job hadn't been filled that I would love the opportunity to have an interview... and she agreed! So, I have a scheduled interview with her. (No guarantees on this job, there is some competition stacked against me.) I admit I'd be bummed if I didn't get it, but hey I already got a job offer today. That was AWESOME! And all I can do is prepare for the interview and pray. I know that what happens now is in the Lord's hands.

I am grateful for tender mercies. I am thankful to know I have a Heavenly Father who knows me, and loves me. I am thankful for the lessons He teaches me. Faith is not just a belief in God, or believing that things will just "work themselves out", it is action. It is putting forth every effort I can muster to accomplish my goals and dreams, knowing that the Lord will bless me and make up for my shortcomings and weaknesses only after doing all that I can. God is Good.

"By small and simple things, are great things brought to pass"

-Alma 37:6