A little more than a year ago, I made a decision that I knew would change the course of my life but I had no idea of the overall impact. With the birth of my 10th child, I realized all that I had missed in pursuit of the all mighty dollar. So, circumstance took over. The reality was, I had 10 kids and I was unemployed by choice. I decided to step out of my comfort zone. I spent a great deal of time getting to know my kids, spending time doing the things that I could never seem to take more than a day off to do. I had no thought of what I would do in the future and frankly, at that time I didn’t care. Being unemployed is a learning experience. I learned who my friends were. Many that I had helped get jobs, gave business to and connected them with others were all of sudden silent. This is when the realization hit, the success we create is our own. Thankfully, I was financially prepared for everything that came my way. No one expected me to be financially savvy. I mean, I ran a multi-million operation, a house of 12 plus and had a small business. Many underestimated my ability to survive. Who quits a job with one income and a large family, I have been asked. I did! There are many components to life. There are two that stand out to me risk and respect. If you aren’t willing to take the risk, the reward may never come and if people don’t respect you, there are two choices, accept it or walk away! We are given this life and something we all have, free will. I could have worked, kept going as I was or stopped, reflected and established priorities. My choice, my free will was to get to know my kids. There were circumstances that led up to my decision but the decision was the right one, I will not make an excuse there. Many people would love to do what I did but for every action there is a reaction. You have to be prepared. It hasn’t been all sunshine and rainbows but what calmed the fear was hope, hope that because I did the right thing, I would find the right thing. I don’t care what you believe in. I know I was blessed with 10 beautiful lives that depend on me to put them first and I didn’t realize that until my last child was born. I am grateful, I saw it then and not at 50 or 60. Do what life calls you to do, don’t make it about money, make it about memories, and make it about life and how you leave people feeling. Make it about a legacy, a role model that can be appreciated and shared from your children to their children but never make it about the money. So, yes, I have 10 kids and I was unemployed but I had love in my heart and no regret about my decision, ever! I love my 9 Lazy Kids and a baby but they were ready for dad to go back to work! That is when my future was revealed. I had 3 job opportunities. I only made it to two of them before receiving offers from both. So, it was decision time. Was I going to Los Angeles or Orlando? My decision led me across country to Los Angeles. As I reflect back now on the past year and see many folks in the same place they were a year ago, I know what separates us, passion, love and risk. Change can be scary and exciting but what will be your driver to take the leap? Mine was 9 Lazy Kidz and a baby!
6 Comments
Danielle Castle
9/2/2017 06:55:01 pm
You are truly inspiring. What a classy family. I have only good hopes for you and your family going forward.
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Martin
9/2/2017 07:19:44 pm
Thank you for the kind words and well wish!
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Carrie Sampson
9/2/2017 07:35:53 pm
Martin, I knew you when there was only two kids. I am very proud to say I knew you when....and for many years we saw each other 5 days a week. You were the person who encouraged me to go back to school after many years, to achieve my associates degrees and when I wanted to call it quits you encouraged me to continue. You have always put your family first. As a single parent it was always a struggle to balance work and family for me. I thank you for always being a friend and a colleague. You and Michelle make an awesome team and are great role models for your children. Wish you the best in your new home.
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Martin
9/2/2017 07:56:28 pm
We have a long history. We've shared laughs, deep conversations and watched each other grow. I've always tried to take the high road when others didn't so, I am pleased to read your comment, to know in some small way I was able to make a difference, an impact. You did an amazing job with Cassandra all while working more than full time. It was and is my pleasure to have known you. I'm not sure where this road is taking me but wherever it is, I'm up to the challenge!
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Rebeccaplus6
9/2/2017 08:34:12 pm
Hello Dear Friends, I'm so blessed to have been able to know you all personally and my family to spend time with yours! Michelle and yourself Martin exceed compliments I can write!! I can honestly say you and your family re genuine, lo wing, morally & ethnically sound! And I send continued Love & Prayers to your inspiring family ! May your new beginnings be filled with comitinued GREATNESS!
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Martin
9/2/2017 08:58:54 pm
There are people that come into your life for a season, a reason or simply to aggravate. We have been fortunate to know good people like you that have outlasted a season. You have been there for a reason. Your continued support and friendship mean a great deal to us. Thank you for your well wishes and we hope not to disappoint anyone as we continue on this journey.
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AuthorMichelle and Martin Ervin have had the privilege of raising 11 amazing children. We will share #parenting advice, recipes and anything that has to do with our fantastic journey Archives
June 2021
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