The Power of the Pause

I haven't been around for a while due to an overwhelming year of educating teenagers.  I am back for the summer. I just heard Maria Shriver's commencement speech and wanted to congratulate her.  She spoke about the power of the pause.  We are living in uncertain financial times and it is certainly scary to be released into the job market.  She encouraged the students of her daughter's graduating class to not be rushed or pushed into just any career-just because everyone is judged on their success.  Here is a portion of her speech:

"So remember to pause and reflect -- before you sign on with someone or some organization whose work you don’t admire and respect. Who you work for is as important as what you do.
And if you don’t have a job yet and someone asks you “What-are-ya-gonna-do?” Just pause, and be aware of this fundamental truth: It’s okay not to know what you’re going to do! It’s okay not to have all the answers. You don’t have to be like I was at your age and beat yourself up for not knowing.
It’s okay to go with the truth and tell people, “You know what? It’s a tough job market out there. I'm not sure what I'm going be doing. I'm pausing, I'm open, and I'm looking at my options.” Hey, that’s exactly what I’m saying to people these days -- and so far, so good!
And while you’re waiting for that perfect job -- know this: There are so many incredible nonprofits out there doing important high-impact life-changing work. They can use your brains and talent in the meantime to help them communicate their mission and message."    

Maria Shriver- Friday, May 11th at Anaheim school of Communications

Bravo Maria- As the mother of a graduate of the class of 2012, that is exactly what the students need to hear. Everyone is asking them what are they going to do, are they going to get their Master's?  I just want to scream because I know that we already owe a shit load of money in loans and my daughter has worked very diligently on her classwork. We as parents have allowed her the the time to really invest in her education and now it is time to enter the work world and learn the lessons of holding a job, being responsible and supporting herself. Unfortunately, that may mean that she may have to work at a fast food restaurant for a while. 

Thanks Maria, for speaking about these troubling times and making me realize that we all are in the same boat.  I remember when I graduated in 1982, we were going through recession and I had a really difficult time finding a teaching job.  I wanted to stay in Atlanta but couldn't afford to wait to hear from the school systems.  I went back home and worked the old summer jobs and felt like a loser. You are told - everyone needs math and science teachers- you are guaranteed to find a job.  Well- it took until October to get a job. Life was really difficult- I made $12,000 a year and couldn't afford a phone in my apartment.  It is unfortunate that my daughter's generation has experienced such an easy life style and now when they are about to be set free the tables have turned. 

It is OK if she doesn't get as job right away.  It is OK if she needs to live a home for a while. If I can't retire right away- I will also be OK with that. We will all make it and I am very happy and proud to be the parent of such a unique and talented young lady!!