GAINS FROM A SIDE GIG

     From time to time, one may find themselves working a ‘side hustle’, better known as a ‘side gig’.  Back in the day, a second job was referred to as ‘moonlighting’.  Nevertheless, a side gig can bring in some extra, needed income during hard economic times.

      It may also serve to gather information to give one a ‘leg up’ when times get better.

      In my neck of the woods, I’ve been blessed to happen across a wide variety of young folks working the side gig of delivering groceries.  A few were young Black brothers who had just finished college and earned their degree, or, others who were at differing portions of their college careers.  Of course, I tip them well.  I also take the time to talk with them as the opportunity presents itself. 

      Sometimes, I give them ‘success’ books from my own personal library.  Sometimes, I pass along articles and magazines that will help these young brothers down the road.  Bottom line? Someone took the time to encourage and help me to be successful; it only makes sense to do the same thing for someone else.  During my ‘beans and biscuit’ days, I learned how to listen, observe, and watch my elders and superiors while keeping my mouth SHUT and my words few.

      One must learn to joyfully carry water for someone else before others will carry water for you.  Life is cyclical.  There is a season for young men to learn ‘the social graces’; there is a season to show what you have learned, and there is a season to teach and pass that knowledge on to a new generation of young men who are starting out on the road of career success.

      God has provided the home for the training of youth by their parents.  However, He has also provided wise elders in many a city who have mastered His teachings, received the Lord’s blessings, and have become successful in an upright, righteous manner.  Sometimes, a side gig is a great way to access many of these elders who you may not ever meet during the routine hustle and bustle of life.

      An elder in many a community does not have to ‘shout’ about their successes in life.  They do NOT have to advertise, nor will they ‘chase you down’ to tell you about what they did to have success arrive on their doorstep.  However, my young brother, you will recognize that ‘spark’ in their eye and wisdom in their voice when you meet them.  Be wise, take the time, make the effort and chat with an elder while on your side gig.  You may get more than a tip when you and he have finished your business.  You just might get the inside track as to how to make it to the next level of success in your life.

Mike Ramey is a Retired Minister, KJV Bible Teacher, syndicated columnist and Bible Prophecy Specialist who lives in Indianapolis, Indiana.  “The Quick Scan” is one of a variety of his columns appearing and abounding in print and cyberspace, written from a biblical, business, and common-sense perspective since 1996.  To drop him a line—or a whine—the address is still the same: mgmikeramey@yahoo.com.  ©2023 Barnstorm Communications International.