Slow Days, Hard Days

There are days, like today, where work is just slow. On these days I usually come home feeling pretty drained, more drained than on busy days when I have so much to do that I barely have time to eat lunch. I did not have to wonder why that is for very long. I'm reminded of a job interview I had while in law school where the subject of challenging work and balancing family came up. I told the interviewers that I'd rather have the challenge and that it would make me a better husband and father because being challenged not only helps me grow but it also keeps me happy. It is stimulating and invigorating, albeit tiring. I think I'd rather come home tired and fulfilled that just tired. Of course, I recognize that this is the end of the judicial term and that work is slowing down. It seems that legal work will never come at an even pace, it is either drought or monsoon. So, I'm certainly not discouraged. However, it reminds me why I should not seek work based solely on a light schedule or light workload, rather on the personal growth and fulfillment it offers. It may be a little more difficult to leave at 5 pm, but I will be happy. I think that that is something my kids need to see as well. Hard work pays emotionally as well as financially.