Not Selected

“Thank you for your interest. You have not been selected for this position.”

Remember that team article from a few weeks ago?

I have it on good authority that I’m not alone in this. In fact, I received a text message about 20 minutes before my interview. It said, “pray for my husband, he’s interviewing for a position in his preferred field.” (Yes, I adjusted the quote slightly to keep anonymity for my friends.)

He got his non-selection notice a few hours before mine. He’s been half-in his field and half-in his backup field for several years now…enough time to establish a home with his wife, have two kids, and buy two houses. So close, so far, so long, and so often. He’s had to deal with this answer a few times more than I have.

It’s also a common answer for authors – that is, for the authors with the confidence and courage to submit their creations to the scrutiny of others. I’ve not gotten that far yet. Published authors encourage those who come along behind them to embrace rejection as Einstein embraced failed experiments – trophies to the attempt and records of what doesn’t succeed.

With the many prayers that God will make His assignments clear, we can confidently rest in knowing that this position isn’t the appointed place at this time.

We both have current positions, so we’ll carry on with those until we learn otherwise. As for me, I’ve applied for another position, and other candidates have until May 30 to do the same. The next answer isn’t expected before June. Maybe I’ll get a book proposal submitted by then…