As I ran through the sheets of rain today, I felt grateful for the warm 80 degree air, thinking, "Wow, this still definitely feels like summer..." thinking about the times in months to come, when rain will fall, but it won't feel quite so refreshing. Though the weather hasn't shifted much, something else has. This time of year always has a buzz to it, like we're all worker bees getting our jobs and goals ready for the upcoming months. I think back to years past, as I loaded up my backpack with new school supplies, hopeful and nervous for the year ahead. This morning, I did just that. I thought about what books I'd like on the shelves of my therapist office in the elementary school where I'll be working this year, and what outfit I'd like to wear for my first day of school. As I approach another school year, I'd like to leave all of you with a powerful quote that I witnessed while visiting social work schools, before I began my journey towards social work, two and a half years ago. It was plastered on the wall by the building, and I jotted it down, wanting to implant in my memory. It reflects the work I care about, and the work I am about to do...and I think it speaks to the larger message of what I hope our country will commit itself to, though I'm sure the next couple months will be very telling. I also have had this quote on my facebook profile since I saw it written those 2.5 years ago, and I feel ready to replace it with something new, knowing that I will carry this with me as foundation for years to come.
And with that, I share it with you:
"When I see brokenness, poverty and crime in inner cities, I also see the enormous potential and readiness for transformation and rebirth. We are creating an art form that comes from the heart and reflects the pain and sorrow of people's lives. It also expresses joy, beauty, and love. This process lays the foundation of building a genuine community in which people are reconnected with their families, sustained by meaningful work, nurtured by the care of each other and will together raise and educate their children. Then we witness social change in action." -Lily Yeh
To all you worker bees out there, I wish you well on your journeys. And I will be in touch as I move forward with mine.
Adieu!
Anna
