Hello,Hivers. I want to share something about my online job. I mentioned this on my introduction post:
@chrisj25/a-ride-in-life-an-introduction-post-my-journey-of-thirty-two-years-going-through-lifes-ebbs-and-flows
The journey has been meaningful and tearful — nothing can ever prepare us enough for what is to come. But, in whatever was, is, and will be, we have to keep going, grounded on the “Core” and belief system that no matter how broken things can be, we will rebuild.
We all have our own battles we keep fighting; it’s an ongoing struggle we sometimes fail to face head on, fight the wrong way, or win uniquely. No method is absolute — carry on in spite and despite of everything.I will never forget one of the discussions from our professor in college about Japanese principles in business. One of them is “Kaizen” and that means continues improvement. To me, it wasn’t only about a business principle, it was something that fueled me.
After graduation, it’s hilarious that I still felt clueless of what to do. I graduated with a degree in Business Administration; while it offered an array of opportunity, it seemed like I was stuck in a system . It bewildered me. I got by with a low for three years, consistently plagued with so many questions in my head , “Can I really make it?” Office culture was slowly draining me . I wanted to get out but I had no exit plan. But my admiration for Japanese culture led me to my dream job — a desk , laptop , and my own office inside my house.I romanticized this idea , but the journey was never short of challenges that twisted and bent me.
I started from scratch and had to buy equipment for an online job. I had a few ideas about computers, but I wasn’t even close to being a tech savvy; I only have decent English skills , a college diploma, a business background, my small room, and a quiet assurance that despite the odds, I’d pull through.
Back then, electricity would always fluctuate and internet services were scarce in my place. I don’t know what back up I should buy, the kind of laptop I needed (clock speed, RAM, and other tech jargon were all Greek to me). I could start , but I may not be able to stay in the industry I’ve chosen. On top of that, two brain surgeries due to brain tumor have always caused several medical conditions, so I have to be cautious.
I entered the ESL industry by the help of a friend . I’ve been teaching Business English for more than six years now. I have more time to savor the moments with people dear to me. A bowl of ramen is more flavorful and sushi became more delicious ; they are now conversation starters that give sense and connection between my job and passion for culture exploration.
There’s more to this than the narratives and the pictures themselves but it’s a testament of how God’s grace has sustained me — someone confused and clueless, but now secured in His promises. I will still fail, break, bend, or get lost, but there’s clarity now and an Anchor that will help me rise and rebuild again.
All photos are edited on Canva.