Article January 1, 2001 Issue

Beate Hathaway

Tax consultant

with contributions from Beate Hathaway—Covina, CA

Every day my work gives me opportunities for more growth. When there are new things to learn, I see them as opportunities — even if a catastrophe seems to be happening.

Yesterday was such a day. Our computers in the office crashed, and nothing was working. In order not to panic, I withdrew to a quiet corner and prayed. This helped me find my inner balance again.

When I pray, I start a conversation with God. I try to be very still and listen for an idea, for “the still small voice” the Bible speaks about (I Kings 19:12). And an idea always comes. Sometimes it's just the thought that I'm God's child and that the burden of solving a problem doesn't rest on my shoulders. Then I hold on to that thought. With it, I can face the challenges of the day.