Do You Remember Your First Job?

I know you remember your first job. We all do. It was a pivotal time in our lives. I’ll never forget mine. I had signed up for Vocational Office Education (VOE) at my high school, which means I would gain enough office knowledge and skills to get my first job. I had learned to type, take shorthand, know how to file and other office procedures. My high school found me my first job at Sylvania Electric Company as a file clerk – at a whopping $1.25 an hour. In that company, I not only found out what stepping out of my comfort zone was, but I also learned valuable relationship interaction and great job skills that opened the door to my next job that gave me on-the-job training to be their Accounts Receivable Bookkeeper. The first job paved the way for my future in administration in many various locations in the U.S. and Canada, and even in owning our own businesses.

I had that “blast from the past” when, yesterday, I picked up my granddaughter, Alexia Wallace, from her interview at Chick-fil-A for her first job. I was on my way to pick her up when I got her text “I got the job!” She was beaming when she came bouncing to my car. I know that feeling – that sense of worth and value AND accomplishment. She turns 16 on the 16th of this month, so this is a big deal that paves the way and sets the course for taking “next steps” the rest of her life.

I couldn’t help but be so grateful that she is starting with a company, Chick-Fil-A, that has refused to compromise their Christian principles. By survey, Chick-fil-A is America’s favorite fast food restaurant, and it’s obvious when I drive by the one right near my house with car lines that go around the building. Some would say it’s the food. Others would point to its clever advertising. (Let’s face it, there is something appealing about seeing a cow beg you to “Eat Mor Chikin.”) But, Founder Truett Cathy had a different view. He declared that the secret of his success was the company’s high quality of people and their attention to customer service. I have to agree. There’s something about those kids who work there and how they respond to our “Thank you” with “My pleasure”.

Truett said it all goes back to Chick-fil-A being closed on Sundays. Truett, who passed away in 2014, believed everyone should have a day off a week — for church, rest, or to enjoy family. Dan Cathy, President and COO of the company now (Dave passed away in 2014), says, “Jesus Christ did not die for a company, He died for individuals, personally.” The company wants to operate on Biblical principles and acknowledge the Lord in all ways.

I love the perks that Alexia will have with her new job. She’ll be learning responsibility, teamwork, leadership and management skills. She’ll start building her resume for her next step up the ladder. She’ll be off every Sunday – that’s huge for a gal that is on a Worship Team at her church, and that’s her passion and desire for her future. She loves the food – just about any meal, she’d be happy if you’d choose Chick-Fil-A. She’ll get 20% off for Nana’s meals (bonus for Nana). She already has friends that work there and she’ll develop even more friendships. (I can relate. I met my future “bridesmaid” at my first job.)

When asked by the Manager, “Alexia, what do you hope to do in the future?” She replied, “I hope to be a Worship Pastor at my church. Missions and helping people is my heart.” The Manager said, “Congratulations! Welcome to the Team! We’ll contact you about getting your uniform and training. You can start next week!”

Practicing Christianity inside the walls of the church is one thing. In fact, it’s probably the easiest place to act “Christ-like.” Practicing Christianity in the secular workplace is an altogether different thing. I love that my girl’s first job is with a company that has refused to compromise their Christian principles, regardless of what the world says.

“Seek FIRST the kingdom of God, and HIS righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” – Matthew 6:33

And to celebrate, of course my girl and I had to go shopping, after all “Nana, I ALWAYS get a winter sweater during September! It’s my birthday month!” Such is life with Lexi!