About 6 years ago when I was newly graduated from college I started my first "real job" as a telephone customer service representative. For my job I interacted with elderly people on the phone, who were generally having a hardship that caused them to need help. One day I took a call from a woman who was at the end of her rope. I can not remember what her issue was, I just remember spending a lot of time trying to convince her that things would be ok. The most memorable part of the call was the very end. I had defused her anxiety enough that she was calm, and had a plan. She thanked me for helping her and then she asked me what my name was. I told her my first name and she reacted in shock. She told me that her daughter, who had been a powerful supporter for her but had passed away was named Tricia. She said that our conversation, and my care for her was a sign from her daughter, and she was happy.

"I Can Do All Things Through Christ Who Strengthens Me" Philippians 4:13

I was reminded in church this last week of this verse, and of the importance of remembering that in everything I do, I am representing my faith. All my accomplishments are a testament to God, and all of my hardships represent an opportunity to show the strength and resilience that I possess because of my faith. And sometimes, through no choice of my own, I am doing God's work, so it is important to do it well and to realize that the lord is at work in all of us if we allow him.