Titles...My Ash
They don't put CEO on your tombstone...or at least I hope not.
Ash Wednesday for Christians, Ramadan for Muslims, Yom Kippur for Jews, and maybe just the coming of spring for everyone, regardless of your theology, often brings a time to reflect upon what we’re doing here. I mean seriously, what would ya say, ya do here (all respect to the Bobs in Office Space). This week on the podcast, I talk with a good friend, someone I consider like a big brother, Rob Pool. Dr. Rob Pool, serves as the VP of Student Affairs and Auxiliary Services at Ashland University.
When he was a kid, he wanted to be an astronaut (who didn’t!). Then, he was going to join the Army. Then, he was going to be a lawyer. Guess what, he didn’t do any of those things. But his journey from those things to his current role has something to teach us. Titles do not matter. Of course, they matter when it comes to salary, prestige, or looking for that next big opportunity, but ultimately, from ashes to ashes we will all go.
Calling is a big word to all of us. Ultimately, I believe we are called to love our neighbor, love the people we work with, or serve. Love the co-worker we don’t like. Love the student in our class that is obnoxious or a constant thorn in our side. People won’t remember your title most likely when you’ve been retired or gone, but they will remember how you made them feel. They will remember if they felt like they were a valued part of a team.
Our titles don’t define who we are, or at least they shouldn’t. Talking with Rob this week reminded me of that. When I failed to land roles this past summer that I desperately wanted, I was reminded that I didn’t need a title to love people well in my circle. It doesn’t mean it wasn’t a major disappointment I’ve had to face and process, but all of us have been in this scenario. Sometimes, we just aren’t in the right place at the right time. Also, as Rob talks about in the podcast, sometimes you just have to move on.
I hope this week’s episode helps remind you of these two things. 1. We are not our titles. 2. We are loved regardless of what we do for a job or career. I have to continuously remind myself of this. Maybe you do too.
B.Davis Wells
P.S. Coincidentally, my latest single Ashes is out on all the platforms. Check it out below.