“In Training. . .”

So for the past couple of weeks, I have been “in training” for my new job. We all know the verse in Proverbs 22:6 which says, “Train up a child in the way he should go; and when he is old, he shall not depart from it.” Please, note that this verse says “should” – it is the normal outcome, yet we all realize that individuals have the freedom of choice. People of all ages get trained every day, so what does this involve?

First of all – it requires a “trainer” and a “trainee.” Some trainers have a knack for explaining things so that you can understand the concept. Some trainers – well, they could use some more practice. The same also goes for the trainee – some people/children are easier to train than others. If you have ever had more than one child, you know that what works with one will probably NOT work with the other. So, for real training to take place – a knowledgeable trainer and a receptive trainee is best.

Training also requires leading not only by word, but also by example. I’ve been “shadowing” the person who has my job at another office for eight days. I’ve probably learned more every time the phone rings, or someone knocks on the door (or even doesn’t knock – just comes on in!), than I have sitting in meetings. Learning how to handle “situations” that come up (because we all know that they will!), has been a large part of my training. Children also learn by what they see.

One of the greatest blessings from my training is that now I have “friends” that I know won’t think that my questions are stupid, and I can call when I need to talk something out. I’ve formed relationships that will hopefully last many years. I’m going home more confident, more informed, and very excited to get started! And that, my friends – is the purpose of training! God Bless, Courtney