Eric L. Motley, Ph.D.

Occupation

Special Assistant to the President and Associate Director of Presidential Personnel, White House

How do you define "vocation"?

To serve my fellow man in whatever course I pursue.

How has your faith influenced your major choice and/or career decisions?

I pray for discernment; for a better understanding of God's will for my life. I ask myself before undertaking any endeavor, "Is this something that God would have me to do? How am I serving him and my fellow man by doing this?"

How has your Christian identity shaped your sense of self and awareness of your spiritual gifts?

I strongly and sincerely believe that I can do all things through Christ. My faith sustains me in all circumstances.

Please share your personal and work related values as they relate to your vocation.

I work for the President of the United States. My job responsibilities involve identifying, interviewing, selecting, and recommending to the President the top, most qualified men and women to serve him in specified governmental positions. The President's charge to his team is "Base your decisions on doing what is right and not what is popular."

What words of wisdom would you like to share with others searching for their personal calling?

I do not use my faith as a crutch. To be truthful I am quite put off by religious sentimentality and emotionalism that is void of clear thinking and planning. Every good fruit is born and initiated out of "action." When you seek, you find. When you ask, it is given. When you knock on the door, the door opens. My prayer is that God will direct me, give me the confidence to overcome my obstacles; nurture within me the gift of discernment so that when choices are before me I can see clearly and more effectively make decisions. I belive that you must pray and think about the future. You must define your priorities. You must ask "What and who does this action profit?" If your desire is to do the will of God, then you must evaluate everything you undertake in light of that desire. Lastly, it is important to appreciate that God would not have us do anything that is solely for our own benefit. I believe that His individual will for each of us is so great that it will positively affect everyone we encounter. I ask myself almost daily, "Is what I am doing making a difference in the lives of others?" Right now I believe that I am making a difference for the good.

Update: Although Eric has moved on to other career opportunities, his story continues to serve as an inspiration.