This week I have been back in my old office, working with the same people as before, and although it felt weird every now and then, it proved to me the importance of leaving a place well.
When it’s time for you to transition out of a relationship (job, church, friend, city…) leave well. Clean up behind yourself. Make things great for whoever comes in after you. Do things so well that the people who see you know you have integrity.
Then you’ll be invited back. A former employer may have a gig for you, old neighbors will welcome you back to their homes, and most importantly you will be spoken well of.
Finish well. Leave well. Don’t burn bridges.
Ahhhh the christening first real post! I agree it is extremely important to leave right and do what is right even when others don’t! Just remember food stamps stick to the roof of your mouth. 🙂
Welcome to the blogosphere. It is an honor to call you friend!
Hugs,
-M
Hey Joe,
Good to hear from you! Hope things are going well. Yes, you’re correct, bridges are best left intact and “unburned”.
Still no cello around here, but a sweet mandolin and a new baritone guitar are occupying some time. Stay in touch and let me know how you are.
Best,
Trey
We often talk about Christ being seen in the way we live life…easier said than done…but in this transition Christ was seen in your actions.
You will be blessed because of it.
Leave well? Yes. Leave w/o some questions about how it went down? Usually not. And this is the road of grace & mercy we travel. Hey, I like your resources, in-the-know Joe. everygoodgift, nangirl@blogspot ~
Great post. I’ve discovered over the years that many of our clients come back around, and it’s critically important that we see that big picture. Before you vent on someone, remember that in the future, you might need them for a job. Holding your tongue now (no matter how hard it might be) will benefit you greatly in the future.
A great truth. It’s always flattering to be welcomed back with open arms as if you never left. Integrity as you are going out is as important as when you came in.
I was a witness of this in Joe’s life, working with him recently, and he was the model of integrity through his transition. I give you huge props. You will be rewarded.
Yes, it is great to work along side Joe again! A lesson the Lord has guided me through in recent years is to listen more (alot more!), and talk less. I no longer feel compelled to offer my opinion on every situation or issue that arises in our daily walk (but the temptation often arises). My Lord is served better, and by assignment I am as well, when I let a problem simmer, wait for guidance, approach with an open mind. Yes, years bring wisdom, and we are thankful, but years also bring a realization that we know far less than we originally believed. An air of confidence is a two-edged sword. Be bold, but not blind. Never get too busy to extend a hand or a kind word wherever, and whenever the opportunity arises. Thanks Joe! MAB