As I sit in the confines of our SUV, the warm Florida breeze gently brushing against my face, I can't help but reflect on the journey that led me to this moment. If you don’t already know I am a crisis specialist, tasked with providing support and guidance to those facing the darkest moments of their lives– a sometimes mirrored reflection of my beginning. But beyond the professional facade lies a story of resilience, determination, and the relentless pursuit of stability amid chaos.
The Weight of Crisis Work
Working as a crisis specialist is not just a job; it's a calling…ah hem, WAS a calling. Every day, I am confronted with the raw realities of human suffering – the pain, the desperation, the uncertainty. It's a heavy burden to bear, carrying the weight of others' struggles while maintaining a semblance of composure and empathy. And when you add the complexities of living nomadically into the mix, the burden becomes even greater.
Homelessness is not a label I ever imagined wearing, yet here I am, finding solace in the confines of our makeshift home on wheels. Living out of an SUV in Florida presents its own challenges – the scorching heat, the relentless humidity, and the constant search for safe parking spots. But amidst the trials and tribulations, there is a strange sense of freedom, a liberation from the norm of traditional living.
However, navigating the unpredictable terrain of homelessness while holding down a demanding job is no easy feat. It requires a delicate balance of resilience, adaptability, and unwavering determination. Every day is a struggle to stay afloat, to keep the financials coming in, and to find comfort in the discomfort. But through it all, there is a glimmer of hope – the hope that one day, things will fall into place, that stability will no longer be just a distant dream.
Mental Well-Being & Meaningful Work
As I navigate this unorthodox lifestyle, I constantly search for meaningful work that aligns with my values and aspirations. While my role as a crisis specialist has provided me with further education regarding understanding the need for emotional wellness, it is not without its challenges. The mental heaviness of the job weighs on my soul, prompting me to seek out alternatives that offer a sense of fulfillment without sacrificing my well-being. Hence this blog!
In my quest for stability and fulfillment, I have realized that the journey is just as important as the destination. Every setback, every challenge, every moment of uncertainty has shaped me into the person I am today – resilient and unapologetically determined. With that, I have to embrace the journey that's meant for me, the journey that's leading me to be authentically vocal and communally encouraging about pursuing the life that one desires which includes meaningful work.
A Bridge to New Beginnings
I am reminded of the power of perseverance and the beauty of possibility when I write about my experiences. I'm confident that sharing my journey will aid those experiencing similar paths. My raw, real, and honest outlook brings a different and resonating scope of view.
Having the ability to work a position meant to help those in familiar situations has been an eye-opener for 2 reasons: this position is not as helpful as I was led to believe (politics) and while I am a mental health and emotional wellness advocate, a job in this compacity can be detrimental especially while trekking in a not-so-comfortable setting.
I've come to accept that this is not the ideal job for me even if it puts me directly in the line of what I'm passionate about: assisting those in unprecedented points of their lives. I can honestly do this from a morally balanced position; one that genuinely and wholeheartedly aims to help the community.
I am determined to embrace the unknown with open arms and continue the search for rooted and meaningful work that brings joy and fulfillment to my life. So, as I take the next step on this journey, I invite those trekking a similar path to join me – to walk alongside and navigate the twists and turns of life, one step at a time while finding the career that best suits your overall wellness.
As I embark on this journey of self-discovery and resilience, I invite you to join me in exploring the twists and turns of life, one step at a time.
If you're curious to learn more about how my daughter Shakira and I navigate the challenges of living nomadically while balancing work and adventure, head to our blog/vlog on MEH, We Do Things. There, you'll find insights, tips, and personal stories that shed light on our lifestyle's unconventional yet fulfilling aspects. Together, let's embrace the journey and find solace in the shared experiences of nomadic living. Click here to continue the adventure with MEH!
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