Sharpening Character

I was recently placed in a very short, but overwhelming experience that I honestly believe has sharpened my character. Let me tell you from the beginning.

As you guys already know, I have a passion for fashion and styling both men and women, so when my manager asked me if I wanted to help out at the season launch for my work place for two days! I didn’t think twice about helping out. I mean, the opportunity to see and organising the new collection and to help out with the styling of models, I wouldn’t dream of saying no. So it goes without saying, I woke up very excited and arrived at the location early.

When I arrived, I saw a few familiar faces and I was introduced to some new faces including the product manager, who was running the new season launch. For my first task, I was assigned to organising goodie bags. Within ‪around 10 to 15‬ minutes, I was then asked by the assistant of the product manager to purchase something they had forgetting to get. At this time it was ‪8:45am‬. Slightly concerned I asked “will the shops be open at this time”? but was assured they should be. I walked the street for half an hour trying to find an open shop but had no success, nevertheless I said I would go back later. When I got back to the room the models had begun to arrive, so I brought them to do a wardrobe fit. Once finished I asked the product manager if there was anything else to be done, but was told, “not right now”. Making myself busy, I looked at the fashion show running order and took a drink from my bag, as I turned around to return where the others were, the product manager was Standing right in front of me and so I asked him to ‘excuse me’ so I could get pass. It was in that moment I learned my first lesson – self-control. He looked straight at me and shouted, "why aren't you doing anything! I feel like all you do is stand around and get in the way". At this point I was so confused, he had just told me that there was nothing to be done like 3 minutes ago and every one else was standing around as well. From that moment on it went all the way left…

When the show eventually started he turned into a monster, the show was running a bit behind and he wasn't happy about. As a result we were given a five minute break instead of thirty minutes, leaving us with just about enough time to go to the toilet. Can you imagine nine hours without food or sitting down and you’re not out here fasting? I was so upset and between me and you, I even had a little cry in the toilet. But the show went on and at the end we were all thanked for our service including me! Followed by a kiss on the cheek. After that I swear I was burning inside, because I was reminded of the story of Judas in the bible (Luke ‪22:48‬). I was so upset, that I went home with no intention or desire of going the next day. But, I was encouraged by my sister and a close friend to stay positive. 

The next morning I made my way there, well forced myself there. Before I entered the building I recalled asking God to carry me through the day and to also guard my mouth and my mind. I began the day making a few outfit changes, steaming and other little things ready for the models. I was even surprised when an hour later we were told to stop working and get something to eat, as they didn't provide us with any break or food the previous day. The day went very smooth from this point on, hair and makeup was quickly sorted for the models and we were given our 30 minutes lunch break including food. In the end I stayed after the show with some others to clear up. The product manager thanked us all but what really caught me is when he called me by name and said, “we must get you back to help us for the next show". Honestly, I did think he was being sarcastic but after some assurance, his business card and goodie bag with some extra goodies I was convinced he was genuine.  

In reflection, I honestly enjoyed the whole experience. Even though the first day was very challenging, because I wanted to walk out without saying a word to anyone. But I’m thankful that I didn't, I stayed, and endured a situation I didn’t want. But, I realise now God was sharpening me for the future. This is the industry I want to be in, which means my patience will be tested but as a daughter to a King, I’m called to be set apart not to give up. So instead I tamed my tongue, endured, learnt a few lessons, got some first-hand exposure and grew sharper from this experience.

So to my readers, I say all of this to say, don’t give up but be encouraged to rejoice in every good or bad trial because you just don’t know what you might gain from it or how it will change your mind set or even sharpen your character.