Jennifer’s first question was- if I still worked
at_______?
After I responded it hit me:
People
associate your identity with what they know about you.
It made me realize- where I work isn’t what I wanted to be labeled as or known
for. I want to be known as a writer, author, blogger, someone who cares and
makes a difference. Apparently, I haven’t made a big enough impact.
In August, I had the privilege of being invited to
a private reunion party for a band (Souvenir) I followed heavily in Cleveland,
Ohio between 1978 and 1980. The lead vocalist was gracious enough to introduce
me to fellow writers and guests. When introducing me, I was referred as being a
writer for The Cleveland Plain Dealer.
I pulled him aside and explained I just write blogs in the online version of
The Plain Dealer and was never employed by the company.
An honest mistake and I have to admit it gave me
some instant credence. He stated: “Everyone
knows your blog (which was very kind of him) anyway, so it doesn’t matter.” I knew he was trying to make me feel
better about myself due to
some changes in my music career.George is one of the true genuine nice guys in
the Cleveland music scene and it’s an honor to be a friend.
Decades ago, during my years of self-indulgence; I
ran into a kid who shares the same name
as me at a concert. When the other Jim Carver got in trouble, sometimes people would think it was me (hmmm.. I wonder why). We actually attended the same school. He elaborated at how
much he wanted to be like me and how
he saw me so many nights plastered on drink and drug.
To him, I was a hero. He made me realize something
I never knew- I had been setting a horrible example of addiction and
destruction for some younger folks. I wanted so bad to tell him-you don’t
want to be like me, but I didn’t have the guts. I am hoping he found his way out of the old lifestyle.
Life is too short to live in someone else’s mind
for the wrong reasons. It’s so easy to stay in your own comfort zone and never
take a chance on being known for whom you
are and what you do. It’s far
easier to quietly open a door, instead of making an impact.
One of my goals is to do some things differently
in 2013. I am at a crossroads with the direction of The Rust Belt Chronicles
and where it goes from here. This year, I will do some things I have held back
from doing in 2012, things that scared me.
Perhaps, it’s the push to leave a legacy where
people will know what I do and why I do it or better yet;
it’s my opportunity to link my
identity with something meaningful that
matters!
Until
We Meet Again,
Jim Carver
Jim Carver
Author: The Legacy of David A. Wells- The Lexington High School
“Band of Gold”
Something Meaningful that Matters!
www.successthroughmusic.com
Something Meaningful that Matters!
www.successthroughmusic.com
Disclaimer- Books and
links on this website contain affiliate marketing sources between Jim Carver
and third party companies. I only recommend products, brands and businesses
that I strongly support. Photos used on this site are used courtesy
of the original authors and in no way endorse The Rust Belt Chronicles or my
work. Thank you.
It seems like there is a bunch of us that are making the same move with the same determination. I'm glad ! That means we can all be an encouragement for each other and share information.
ReplyDeleteOnward!
I certainly hope so, it's a long process but worth it! Thank you for being here! Jim
DeleteJim I love that you are so transparent and honest - and this post is no exception. I totally agree with your goal for this year. "People associate your identity with what they know about you." Very, very true and we have to be intentional and courageous in being who we truly are so people know us as we wish to be known. I can relate in the area of sharing my faith in what I do. I work a job as well as building my coaching business. Years ago I was very cautious about speaking out in faith not wanting to "offend" people. When I stopped being timid and in a loving and courteous way spoke my truth - it was amazing how people responded. I was told not to be so "out there" with this on my website but I feel if it offends someone and they don't contact me for that reason, I am not the right coach for them anyway. Great post, Jim.
ReplyDeleteGood point- timid hasn't gotten me anywhere.I use to want people to like me and I always worried about what they thought of me. In that process it's easy to compromise yourself and intentions. Thanks so much Ann! Jim
DeleteJim, your level of candor never ceases to amaze and bless! You inspire hearts far more than you know through your writing and your presence. "This year, I will do some things I have held back from doing in 2012, things that scared me." I am looking forward to seeing these things unfold. God's richest blessings to you!
ReplyDeleteCaroline,
DeleteYou are so kind and warm-hearted. Thank you for inspiring me by letting me know what I do matters! Thank you so much, Jim
This article inspire me.
ReplyDeleteMoreover, I read your profile. It make me more happy in blogging.
Thank you, sir!
Komarudin,
DeleteI am glad it makes you happy and I inspired you. Thank you for your kind comment my friend!
Thank you,
Jim Carver