By Cliff Mann, ACTA
Tax Assessor, Madison County
Education. Training. Self-development. Getting ahead. Moving up the ladder. Terms and phrases we hear about in the corporate world as well in county government offices. The response is sometimes,
“Why bother?” “There are currently (as far as I can see) no opportunities for me to make more money by taking on any initiative, taking an extra class, getting a (or another) certification or designation, so again, why bother?”
It has been my experience that the people who are always and only looking for the money reward for anything they do, will never be happy once they get it. When I decided to go into the ministry years ago, I got my degree from Auburn University and then set out to get a master’s degree in Bible. I wanted to know as much as I could and be as prepared as I could to effectively communicate God’s Word to others. When I began a career in Real Estate, I began right away taking classes to get a GRI & then later a CRS designation. Did that training & knowledge help me earn more money? Yes, at times it did. But it did not always guarantee it. But more importantly over that 20-year career, I learned to be more effective and professional in assisting clients and relating to my colleagues. Little did I know that all those life experiences were preparing me for a blessing I never saw coming, the opportunity to serve the people of Madison County as Tax Assessor. I soon found out I still, once again, had much to learn. I began taking classes and earned the Alabama Certified Tax Administrator certification.
So, I do believe in education, training, and self-development. And, why bother? Because God has given each of us a set of talents and abilities and He expects us to develop and use those in service to others. We never know what opportunity may come knocking one day. It may indeed be for more money, a promotion, or different job, but by the time you hear the knocking, it is too late to begin preparing. Take advantage of any chance to learn and grow. You will be blessed.