by John Fischer with Darin Sigler

MemberPartner Darin Sigler is experiencing something a number of our older readers are facing right now — a slight bend in the road. They are facing diminishing energy and a sense that their most significant works may be behind them. The “carousel of time” may be slowing down in preparation for them to get off soon.

But then, on the other hand, there’s another force at work — the thought that they might not be done yet, and even more, that their most significant days might yet be ahead of them.

Many have written to us about being in the middle of this decision — Darin is choosing, instead of slowing down, to actually speed up. In publishing his piece, we hope to be encouraging all of our people over 60 to consider not slowing down for this bend. It’s not necessary, especially when what’s ahead is the most exciting part of the road. Ask yourself if, like Darin, this might actually be your time to discover the road ahead.

_________________

Recently, I tried to ignore God’s still small voice telling me to leave the comfort zone of my current job and go back to the daily grind of operations management.  You see, I’m getting close to the end of my career and I would like to take the path of least resistance.

My latest job was fun and I had little stress. After all, 30 years as a people and process manager, you’d think the hard work should have been enough. It takes more energy than I have it to give, I thought. But still I knew this was His way of telling me to stop relying on my own power to get this work done. So, I signed back on as plant manager last month. God’s will, not mine. 

The “to do lists” are endless. The stress level has caused sleepless nights and anxiety to return to my heart. My morning prayers have taken on a new sense of urgency. “Dear Jesus, please bring peace to this anxious heart. Calm these stormy waters (aka troubles and tasks).” And then I hear His still small voice say, “My grace is enough for you.” Peace settles in and I fall back asleep. 

I have learned, because He has taught me, that faith doesn’t come to those who have it all under control.  Just because I don’t have all the answers to the people and process issues of the day, doesn’t mean He is not in control. “Have faith in Me, not you.” 

These new days are about confessing my weakness to Him each day and waiting for Him to reveal the wisdom of His will as each new challenge comes. Yes, these days are not what I would have wanted, but I know the reward is more than I will ever know or understand this side of Heaven.  Peace found in the eye of the storm cannot be mistaken for anything less than God’s grace. I’m grateful, to have a job that helps me grow in the final chapters of my work life. I’m a reluctant leader, but the gift is not for me. It must be given away each day as the will of God. I seek to find the joy and fellowship of the people that surround me each day. 

This season will pass like all the rest before it. This time, I will soak it in. The Catch has been an integral part of my journey — a constant source of God’s power that I tap each day.

Thanks, John and Marti, for being with me as fellow brother and sister.   – DS