Every teenager is faced with having to decide what to do for money for the rest of their life, or at least until they retire. A few hear the inner voice calling them as a young child to their future profession. Policeman, fireman, doctor- these are some common choices.

For me, the self-awareness came much later. I now know, in one way or another, my role in society is to communicate, particularly empowering others with knowledge.

When I emerged from high school, I worked where I could find a job without any career goals. Since I did not go to college, I had no pressure to make a choice. I was going from one job to another. After a couple of years, I found myself working in retail as a sales clerk and trainer.

Eight years later, I was publishing an employment newsletter with help wanted ads, a business I started because I was looking for work and saw a need. My next choice was running a newspaper.

Looking back, I see the series of jobs was not just from the opportunities before me at the time, but my nature was also leading me to do what feels right for me. Sales, advertising and reporting are all forms of communication.  It took me many years. At 43, I know what my job should be.

September 9, 2009

Note: This article first appeared in the November 2004 Clay News.

Update: Since 2004, The Edge, which later changed its name to The Hillside Church, has dissolved after the pastor changed his teachings. A new building was constructed for the congregation after the purchase. The house remains, but the arbor has been removed. The property is now being leased by The Summit Church, but they are planning to leave the Clay building and start meeting in Trussville. The property is now for sale. 

The house stands, rustic arbor framing the long curving drive, holding memories of the past and holding hope of new memories in the future. The property at 6540 Trussville Clay Road connects people together from different families and generations and now a church.

The Wells family, whose memories are more recent, sold the house and property this summer to The Edge Church. However, the Chandler family’s memories are buried in old photographs and relics tugged from the ground.

The grounds consist of a wooded lot dappled in sunlight, similar to what would be found in nature trails. The sounds of birds greet the visitors entering the long driveway to the home. The hidden lawns in the back of the property are neat and like a green carpet.

The Edge

He also plans to have “a state of the art children’s facility” called the “Jennifer Nicole Children’s Facility” in memory of his late daughter. The Edge Church is now taking donations for the cause.

After first planning to demolish the older home, they have now decided to keep it as a parsonage with some future remodeling.    

The Wells

Before the Church purchased it, the property was owned by Bill and Temple Wells. They were there for 17 years, raising five children. “We’ve been very happy here,” said Temple Wells, “We’ve loved it.” Temple resigned this summer from serving on the Clay Board of Adjustments because of the move they made to Trussville.