I'm Lovin' It

The McDonald's jingle goes something like "Da da da da dah, I've lovin' it!" and that's how I feel so far about my new job at Taylor University Fort Wayne. It just feels like I've stumbled into the perfect job, which is interesting because in many ways on paper it probably doesn't look like the ideal gig.

I've been on campus now for about eight weeks, if you take out the time that I was away for moving. In that two months, I feel like I've been able to make more of a difference here--at least in terms of the institution--than I did in my entire time at Asbury and maybe even at OIT. There's something very refreshing about having people actually listen to what you say and give it some consideration. I realize that some of it probably has to do with the fact that I have some initials in my title here and it's also likely that my own whole-hearted, long-term commitment to this place causes both me and those around me to respond differently to the things I say and do.

The people here are great. In my whole time here so far, I've had only one negative interaction with someone, which is saying something. Folks are easy to get along with, willing to look at things from different angles and to follow leadership, don't backbite, are welcoming and truly seem to want this place to succeed. There's a very Christ-centered spirit to the campus. They know things aren't perfect but I also think they believe TUFW can be a very special place that makes a big difference in students' lives and the community.

I know I'm still on my honeymoon. It's all about goals and plans now, and the pressure of actually meeting those goals and fulfilling those plans is still in the future. I haven't experienced budget cuts or personnel issues, and I've been shielded from some of the "baggage" that comes with this university, just like any other. I do feel overwhelmed and inadequate but, for now, it really feels like this is the job that I've been preparing for over the last twenty years and I'm lovin' it.