I'm still doing some freelance/contract work, but it's obviously not enough. I actually hired an old colleague of mine to rewrite my resume, and I'm getting out and doing more networking. So I'm hopeful that some of this stuff will bring me some results.
This job search is getting increasingly frustrating, and I've definitely had some days where I'm questioning my abilities. But there is one piece of writing that I've done recently and wanted to share with you all. My son turned 10 this month and I wrote him a letter (below). I hope it's a good read.
Take care and keep in touch. Talk to you soon.
What It Means to Be a Man
Hello and happy birthday, Matthew. It’s hard to believe you are 10 years old today. Mom and I are very proud of the person you have become, and I’d like to share some advice with you as you get older and take on more responsibility in your life.
Please keep this letter and read it on your birthday each year as a reminder of what’s expected of you as a member of this family and as a good member of our society. Don’t worry, you’re not in trouble! I just wanted to tell you what I’ve learned over the years and how I think it can help you as you go forward.
OK, here goes.
Stay true to your family and friends. And yourself. Life is not easy, Matthew. Nobody goes through it alone, and when you need help or someone to talk to, call on your family and your close friends. In turn, you must be there for those people when they need you the most. And don’t forget to trust in yourself. Be an individual. A good man does not necessarily follow the crowd; he does what is right, no matter what the situation may be. When you are confident in your own abilities, you will also be a better resource for those around you.
Show respect for others. There is too much hate in this world right now, Matthew. People are discriminated against based on their religion, race, appearance, background, you name it. Who are we to judge anyone based on how they look and talk, or where they come from? We are all human beings and we all deserve respect. It’s how we want to be treated ourselves, and we should extend that courtesy to others.
Don’t shy away from hard work. Or working with your hands. It’s easy to quit when things aren’t going our way, whether it’s a school assignment, a chore, a sport we play, or anything else. Don’t take the easy way out. Your grandfather (Papa) always told me, “Nothing worthwhile in life comes easy.” I will never forget that, it’s an incredibly valuable lesson. If you want to achieve success, you must work for it and earn it yourself. And don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty, either. Manual labor is noble and satisfying work, trust me.
Offer a firm handshake and look people in the eye when you’re talking to them. It shows you’re serious and interested in what someone has to say. And it helps when you’re looking for a job.
Lend a hand to those in need. OK, here’s another lesson from your Papa. If you’re capable and have a skill or talent to share, don’t keep it to yourself. “Do some good for your fellow man,” as Papa would say. Volunteer in your community. Shovel a neighbor’s driveway. Participate in a fundraiser for your school. Just do whatever it takes to make a better world around you.
Remember you’re not perfect, and own up to your mistakes. We all mess up from time to time, Matthew. It doesn’t necessarily make us bad. It makes us human. A real man admits when he is wrong and he learns from the experience, so that he doesn’t make the same mistake down the road.
I think that’s it for now, Matthew. I’m sure there are other things I didn’t include on this list, but we can always talk if you have questions on anything. I love you, son. Now go out there and make me proud.
Love, Dad
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