Live Like a Guide Dog: A Plan for Turning Fear Into CourageSample

Day 3: Flexibility

Reflection:

Years ago, I was working as a salesman for Kurzweil Computer Products. Unfortunately, when that company merged with Xerox, my job was eliminated, and I had to search for a new job. Despite my years of relevant experience, I encountered countless instances of discrimination during job searches simply because I was blind.

Once, I was invited for a job interview. I knew I was well qualified, and the company planned to fly me out for an in-person interview. The day before I was to go, the headhunter who arranged the interview called. He noted that my résumé included a number of experiences related to blind people, and asked if someone in my family was blind. “No, I am,” I replied. The conversation went south from there. They canceled the interview and the plane reservation, despite the fact that my qualifications and experience had not changed.

The incident made me furious. But anger is often a secondary emotion. It typically has other feelings that lead up to it. And I hated to admit it, but that primary feeling—the one under the anger—is often fear. I thought, What if other companies discriminate against me in the same way? What if no one wants to hire a blind man? What if I can’t find a job?

I knew the way through my fear was to lean on my faith in God and also to be flexible. So flex I did—I started my own company. I trusted that God would be with me as I took a new path. And He was. . . all the way.

God, I sometimes feel worried about the future: my job, my relationships, my health, my legacy. Today, I place all those matters in Your hands, trusting You to replace my fear with confidence. Help me to not think so much about the “what ifs” I face, but rather help me realize that I can get all the strength I need from You.