I had moved to Boston in the hope of finding a job in graphic design—a talent and skill I had developed over a period of years. I canvassed local businesses for work, but every time I thought I had a good prospect, the door would close, and I would be left still looking. Eventually, I was down to my last few dollars, with no savings and no job in sight.  

One morning, I sat at the kitchen table, feeling at a total loss for ideas. I finally stopped ruminating over the situation and said aloud, “OK, God, what do You want me to do?” My thoughts then became very still, and I listened. The idea came as clearly as if spoken out loud that I should call the personnel director of an organization I cared about deeply.

I was surprised, as I had actually contacted this person several times in the past few months, but nothing had developed. Yet, I obediently made the call. The director replied that she did have an opening but didn’t think it was anything I’d be interested in. “Just try me,” I said. “Let me see what it’s all about.”