It was John Flavel who said, "Life's great opportunities often open on the road of daily duties." At this station in my life, as I pursue this profession, I wholeheartedly agree.
My background in business was what many would see as fairly routine, and it was. I spent the majority of my adult life working in the metro Detroit area automotive sector. My early years were in Quality Control, and later ones in Program Management. Those years prepared me to work for nearly ten years in sales, both in manufacturing plants and in service oriented businesses.
After years of riding the bumpy road called the automotive industry I experienced layoffs, downsizing and job eliminations. It was during one of these layoffs that the beginning of a great opportunity, as Flavel put it, started. During the summer of 2001 many businesses in the automotive field had experienced hard times, including the company I worked for. Layoffs were plentiful. I had only been at my current employer for six months, and was one of many in the industry who were laid off.
At that same time I found out about a little known Sunday School class at our church that was geared toward people with disabilities (see Through the Roof Ministries). I began helping in this class and it quickly became a highlight of my week.
After several months of seeking work in the automotive industry, I wondered if there was a job out there for me that would allow me to work with people who had disabilities. It was then, I believe, that God started to put people and events in motion to where I am today. I began to meet and talk to those already serving in this fashion and felt more and more that that was the road where God was leading. I feel very fortunate to have a career that combines my passion and my experience.
"Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him and he will do this: He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun." Psalms 37:4-6
On a personal note, I am first and foremost a Christian. I delight that I am also a husband to a beautiful wife and a Daddy of three wonderful girls. Currently, I am on the board of directors of two ministries; Hurdling Handicaps Speaking Ministries and Outreach for Christ to the Nursing Home Ministries. I am also involved in many activities at church, coach some of my girls' sports teams, and also am an avid fantasy sports player (baseball and football).
My prayer and desire is to honor the Lord in all that I do. In doing so, I hope that you will find me to be honest, trustworthy and caring.
Greg McDougall
