Working My Dream Job
I get paid to go to my Happy Place!
Living Faith by James M. Dakis
Work doesn’t have to be a chore.
I have reached a point in life where I don’t work because I need to. No, I’m not so wealthy that I am living on the interest of my millions. But my Social Security and other sources keep me comfortable enough so that the small, part-time job that I choose to work just gives me money for fun things to do and keeps my mind and body active. Besides, I have long believed that a job can be much more than an obligation. It can be enjoyable.
“Find out what you like doing best and get someone to pay you for it.” — Katharine Whitehorn
When I wrote my article “Who is a Chaplain?” I did not mention that I, myself, am a chaplain. I love my work and try to passionately execute the duties of my calling every day. However, counseling people in times of crisis and tragedy leaves me wanting a job where I can find joy and relaxation. For that reason, I also have what I am glad to say is the best job in the world!
Imagine, if you can, the best time you have ever had in your life. Where is your Happy Place? I know where mine is. As a zoo lover since…well, forever, it is exactly 13.7 miles from my driveway. I know it is that far because I drive it to work. Yup! I now get to go to work at my Happy Place!
Even though I still identify primarily as a minister or chaplain, for twelve hours a week, I get to operate the train pictured above at the Sedwick County Zoo in Wichita, Kansas. It allows me to set aside the challenges that come with my work as a disaster worker, and I am also getting paid to spend time at the most enjoyable place imaginable!
I get paid to make people smile at a place where they come to have fun!
While there can be rewards in just about any job, as someone who has loved zoos since childhood, working at one and watching other people engage in the same joy and excitement that I have felt for over sixty years is exhilarating. It helps that some of the people I work with share the same feelings.
Of course, it is also the animals!
Loving my job and loving the people is certainly what makes it a dream job. However, as I have said a number of times here and elsewhere, my love of zoos started with my love of the animals, and although I don’t see a lot of them while on duty, I do see plenty. There are also days off when I spend hours walking the grounds enjoying the majesty of the 3000-plus animals on exhibit.
Working does not have to be a chore that we do grudgingly. For me, it is a pleasure. I go to my happy place. What about you?
Finding Your Happy Place
Spend time smiling inside.
Living Faith by James M. Dakis is a Christian writing ministry that shares devotional teachings and faith-based fiction for anyone hoping to grow in Christ. Whether you are already a Christian or have questions about your faith, I would love to talk with you. Comment here or reach out to me personally.