When I came to Marriott Manila for my first interview, I already had three goals in mind:
1. Pass the 6-month probationary period
2. Build a good working relationship with my boss (because I heard a lot that she's a difficult one)
3. Be on the wall of outstanding associates of the quarter and year
These maybe simple goals, but trust me, it was tough to achieve. By God's grace alone, I accomplished those three one by one in my 1 year and a half in the hotel. Just recently, I got my photo on that wall by being awarded the Associate of the 4th Quarter 2015. As if that award was not enough, God continued to show me His favor by hailing me as the Associate of the Year - Heart of the House (heart of the house or back of the house).
Fact: the award is from the Lord. Period.
How do I say so?
Since I accepted Christ in my life last 2014, this job was the first answered prayer. I knew that this is where God wanted me to be at. I held onto that promise through the stressful and challenging times. That 3rd goal isn't something I was desperate about, I never laid it to Him. But God knows us, more importantly, He knows better than our desires.
I got the nomination letter for the award during the first day of church-wide prayer and fasting week on the 2nd week of January. It really came as a huge surprise because that morning I was so depressed for a work disappointment. My major prayer item then is seeking the Lord's guidance that I can specific moves to glorify Him at work. I know I haven't been a good servant for being passive Christian at work. Knowing that whatever I do and wherever I am, by God's appointment, I am expected to shine for His glory. While waiting for the results (the awarding happened a week later), it left me confused by the early blessing. All I prayed for, with regards to the award, was for Him to humble me in the process.
Sitting at the front row of the ballroom, everyone's cheering, suspense music arises, but I on the other hand, was surprisingly calm with a normal heartbeat. I was at peace that God is in control and whoever wins is from His approval.
So yes, I am beyond blessed to get it. My initial reaction was great praises for God and then I felt bashful for an undeserved favor. I knew that this moment was a chance for me to glorify Him - the chance I have been praying for. It gave me the opportunity to share His amazing work in me on social media with many of my friends and colleagues were able to see. I was able to share this short testimony to my sales & marketing team. And, it continues to humble me whenever people congratulate me, then I give the credit to Him.
Still not recovered from the first award, the annual recognition awards already happened few weeks later. The annual awardee is chosen from the winners of the four quarters. I am not HOPEFUL for it because the attention and responsibility scared me. I really felt undeserving for the quarterly recognition, what more would the annual award would do. Negative reactions from people that I am not deserving pulled my spirits down. During the recognition day, I woke up feeling so anxious because there are 3 of us in the department nominated for different categories. I know the other two are sure winners. Seriously, my self-esteem is that low. As I sat down on my chair, I invited my seatmate to pray with me. Prayers are powerful! I thought I saw a slide with a picture of the winner, whom wasn't me. I felt relaxed and texted my friend that I didn't get it. So, when they called my name, I was completely stunned! I was hesitant to even stand up in disbelief. Felt like the infamous funny Ms.Universe 2015 moment.
This humbling experience is a proof of God's faithfulness if we follow His command in Colossians 3:23-24, "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving." The verse speaks about us making God the boss of our work. We are working for Him and He pays us for the hard work. However, our performance should be excellent - giving all our heart. Being excellent for Him doesn't require to be the most efficient one, but doing every task with integrity, keeping His commands as our standard. This kept me sane whenever I feel unmotivated, it draws me back to keep pushing because it is the Lord I am working for. The One who only wants the best for me, whose rewards are greater than trophies, and who is faithful forever.
I completely agree to this: "You are only good as your last achievement." People may only remember that I received the award but not the reason behind it. So, the pursuit for excellence for God continues.
All for Him, All from Him.
