Wednesday, September 11, 2013
Personal Advocacy Reflection
I'll tell my story. My family and I fell on hard times. We lost our jobs and was having a hard to getting new jobs. It was frustrating, tiring, and exhausting. So one day, when we had nothing to eat, I went to local food bank I had heard about from a friend. While I was sitting there waiting with my children, one of the family advocates called me into her office. She took the time to talk to me but the thing that stood out was that she asked me how I was doing. I had been so wrapped up in my current situation that I didn't have to time to think about how I was feeling and process anything. All I could do was cry. She gave me a hug and talked to me about numerous options I could do to better my family's situation. Long story cut short, her conversation is what fueled me to go back to school and get my master's degree. It was the best decision I have ever made.
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Thank you for sharing such a personal story. I try hard to remember that as an advocate it is the small and the big things we do that matters. I will remember your story and always remember to see the person behind the struggle. Remembering to ask how the person is doing is so important!
ReplyDeleteIt is wonderful that you continued your education. Sometimes negative situations can create and flourish a brighter future. You have beat the odds and that is a good thing.
ReplyDeleteIsn't it amazing how powerful a hug can be? I have seen so many people who work in social services who are burnt out from the challenges of the job. Social service agencies are usually understaffed and, with our current economy, cases are many. So many social workers are overworked and underpayed. I can understand how they can become bitter. I have had many negative experiences with social services in the past. It makes such a difference when the person who is helping you remembers that you are a real person with real feelings and tries to comfort you in addition to providing you with the necessary resources. Thank you for sharing your story.
ReplyDelete:)Jen