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James Matthew Najera

James Matthew Najera

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Feb 25, 2024
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General Discussion Thread 08.04.2025​

Hey GrayViners!

Let’s kick off the week with something that warms the heart and keeps the mind strong. We all have those moments tucked away in our memories that we revisit when life feels a bit heavier than usual.

Today's question: What’s a memory you return to when you need strength?


george-pagan-iii-PJ61QqdVWMY-unsplash.jpg
Image credit: Unsplash/George Pagan III


For me, it’s an afternoon in my grandmother’s kitchen. The smell of her fresh-baked bread filled the air, and she looked at me and said, “You can’t rush a good rise—same with life.” I still hear her voice whenever I feel overwhelmed, and it always helps me steady my course.

Now I want to hear YOUR story!

Maybe it’s fishing with your dad, a walk through your old neighborhood, or the sound of your kids laughing when they were little. Whatever it is, share it with us here.

Your memory might just be the one someone else needs to read today.

So… what’s your go-to memory for strength?

Cheers!
Blue 💙
 
When I was 17, I got a clerical job with the Federal Govt. My Grandfather asked me about it and I said I was on probation for 3 years and then I was permanent. He looked me in the eye and said, "Linda Jean, no matter what, you stick with the Federal Govt and you'll never be sorry. Those words dug deep into me and, although there were jobs I disliked, I stuck in there as my Grandfather told me. After almost 38 years later and retiring with a very nice pension, I still can hear and feel him tell to stick with it. It was the best advice anyone ever gave me.
 
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tyedyed said:
When I was 17, I got a clerical job with the Federal Govt. My Grandfather asked me about it and I said I was on probation for 3 years and then I was permanent. He looked me in the eye and said, "Linda Jean, no matter what, you stick with the Federal Govt and you'll never be sorry. Those words dug deep into me and, although there were jobs I disliked, I stuck in there as my Grandfather told me. After almost 38 years later and retiring with a very nice pension, I still can hear and feel him tell to stick with it. It was the best advice anyone ever gave me.
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I was hired by San Bernardino County in 1979 as a "temp". That led to a regular staff hiring and a few promotions. I retired after 25 years. I was going to try and stay for 35 but my husband got sick. It was better to stay with him and my retirement than to be greedy about the money
 
  • Love
Reactions: TriciaR
tyedyed said:
When I was 17, I got a clerical job with the Federal Govt. My Grandfather asked me about it and I said I was on probation for 3 years and then I was permanent. He looked me in the eye and said, "Linda Jean, no matter what, you stick with the Federal Govt and you'll never be sorry. Those words dug deep into me and, although there were jobs I disliked, I stuck in there as my Grandfather told me. After almost 38 years later and retiring with a very nice pension, I still can hear and feel him tell to stick with it. It was the best advice anyone ever gave me.
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Thank you so much for sharing that beautiful memory, Linda Jean. What a powerful moment with your grandfather — it’s amazing how just a few words can leave such a lasting impact on the course of our lives. Sticking with it for nearly 38 years is no small feat — you should be so proud! Do you ever think about what he might say if he saw how everything turned out for you? And out of all those years, was there a particular role or achievement that stands out as your proudest?
 
JPalubin said:
I was hired by San Bernardino County in 1979 as a "temp". That led to a regular staff hiring and a few promotions. I retired after 25 years. I was going to try and stay for 35 but my husband got sick. It was better to stay with him and my retirement than to be greedy about the money
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Thank you for sharing that with us @JPalubin — what an incredible journey from a temp role to a long and successful 25-year career. It sounds like you made the most of every opportunity that came your way. And choosing to step away for your husband shows such compassion and strength — that kind of love stays with you forever. Do you ever reflect on how that chapter shaped the person you are today? And are there moments from your time at work that still bring a smile or a sense of pride?
 
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