A Step in the Which Direction!?

The other night I was visiting with a friend regarding my plans and my desire to move. When discussing my lack of specific job pursuits, he showed great concern and said, "Well I just don't want to see you going backwards." As much as I appreciate the care that this question represents, what does that even mean!? It seems that overwhelmingly people are encouraging further pursuit in aviation, so is a step out of aviation a step backwards? There are those who would consider my move from human services into aviation a huge step backwards. So perhaps a step out of aviation is a step forward? As a waitress there were many nights when I made considerably more than I've ever made in other fields, so should I determine the direction of my step by the amount of money I would be making now? Or perhaps I should consider the step forward as one that might lead to higher levels of income. But is income the answer if I'm cooped up in an office and miserable most days? I have very much come to view my life as a journey. As with any journey, there are many ups and downs before you ever reach a summit. Oftentimes you come upon switchbacks which may make the journey take much longer, but are necessary in order to negotiate rough terrain. At other times you must set a straight course and scale a wall. I've never been on this particular journey before, so it is often quite daunting not knowing exactly which trail leads to the summit... or even which of the summits it is that I'm climbing toward. What I do know, however, is that I have a Guide on this particular journey and He knows precisely which trail will lead me to the summit from which I can most effectivley proclaim His glory. So as much as I'd like to sit and rest at this viewpoint, I've learned that it's best to be obedient to the nudges of my Guide and keep climbing. What I don't know is where I'll end up, what I'll be doing, and who in this world will consider it a step in any direction. What I'm learning is a little more each day about who this great Guide of mine is and what He's intended me for in this world. What I know is that my Guide is good, faithful, and oh so very able to get me to where I need to be.