Just Try.

Describe a decision you made in the past that helped you learn or grow.

In 2017, the writing was on the wall for the company know as Sears.

It was bleak shopping for the few mall goers who would wander into one of their depressing shopping centers, and bleaker for staff members who looked at the dwindling supplies and the dwindling quality. At every turn, we were bombarded with pointless, distracting tasks, online “training” modules that delayed us doing functional tasks, and a deteriorating environment.

It was during this time, when I was approached by a friend. He was looking to promote out of his current position after graduating from college, and he wanted to leave the facility in good hands. The facility was a hospital.

In my defense, I told him he was crazy.

In my defense, I didn’t think I’d last a week.

It’s been eight years. Very close to nine. I’ve learned more than I could have possibly imagined. I can only hope that the consequences of my actions have resulted in a net positive.

I’ve seen people rise to occasions and tragically be brought low. I’ve seen hubris and humility, kindness and hatred. I’ve seen incredible intelligence and incredibly stupidity. I’ve seen good doctors and bad patients, and bad doctors with good patients.

I’ve learned my limits, beaten them, and found new ones.

I’ve watched men and women die.

I’ve watched children die.

In all of my learnings and doings, I’ve found that the most important thing I can do is try to be better. To be a good Christian, husband, and friend. To know when it is my place to speak, and when to be silent.

I’ve learned compassion.

And most importantly, sometimes you just have to learn to say “Yes, I will try”.