When we work on the front lines of any endeavor, we gain good perspective about life and living. When we are too distanced from front line work, we lose that vital perspective--a perspective that helps us to understand what people need in order to live good lives.
Today I'll work on the front line. I'm looking forward to this work as it always inspires the best of me. The challenge of how to work well on the front line is tangible, and my opportunity to make positive change is within my grasp. The results are easy to see, analyze, and improve on.
Recently a friend lamented about a her loved one's well being. I shared my mom's advice--when you are down, get out and help someone else. Now I know this is not a solution by itself for any kind of clinical depression, but the reality is that working with and for people on the front line can truly bring perspective and lift you out of depression. I remember when my sons were at places in between jobs or trying to figure out what they wanted to do. They took what some would consider menial jobs--those jobs were perfect. My sons learned a lot about people, organizations, and humanity at those jobs, and what they learned has helped them in their positions after that.
Those who never work on the front line in any way may have more difficulty relating to people and working with empathy, compassion, and understanding. Last night when my son didn't want to take out the trash, I told him that taking out the trash ensures he won't become a trump--it's likely that trump never had to do a menial chore in his life. His lack of empathy, understanding, and ability to do his job well exemplifies this.
So today I will welcome my work on the front line. It will humble me, challenge me, teach me, humanize me, and if I do it well, it will bring me great satisfaction too.
Do you get out there and work on the front line in any job or for any group? How has that impacted your life in significant positive ways? What do you recommend, in this regard?