This afternoon with the camera as my seat companion, I headed off to visit a family on my case load--I do love my job.
True, I have to go into the scary homes of abused and neglected children and often I have to pray that the family pit bull doesn't catch the scent of fear on me.
True, I have to go into homes where the air is so acrid that it takes several showers for my olfactory senses to recover.
True, it sometimes scares me to go into court since Maine can't afford much in the way of court security.
True, I'll never be rich and powerful
True, I go to bed every night knowing that I've made a little difference in someone's world.
True, I get to wear comfortable clothes and hang out with kids.
True, I get to live in one of the most beautiful places in the world.
And, every now and then, there is a happy ending.
17 comments:
Beth, I applaude you for the work you do. It must be very difficult most of the time. What I can't imagine, however, is how you cope with the frustrations- but bless you for doing so. Yes, you do live in a most beautful area. i look at the pictures longingly!
Wow--what beauty. It's good you have that as a counterbalance to what you may encounter that is not so beautiful.
The State of Maine got lucky. Keep up the good work. Pappy
Beckie and kgmon, it's an awful irony that amongst such natural beauty there is abject poverty and hopelessness. If I ever write a book, that conflict will be the theme.
Texican, thanks.
There is nothing like the reward of feeling like you make a difference, and I am sure all the people whose lives you touch are blessed in so many ways Beth. Hugs to you. :c)
This was beautifully written, and a lesson for us all. Life isn't supposed to be perfect but we make the best of it, reminding ourselves in the process that the most important thing is happiness and comfort.
Beth, I don't know what the happy ending was but I hope it was a good one! I'm so glad you love where you live. The photos are lovley but your previous post reminds me why I live in AZ! I pray you always keep hope alive in your heart and remain "True" to yourself! (BTW, I've started working on my vacation posts.) Have you ever read "Christy?" The story takes place a hundred years ago in a differnt state but still part of the Appalatian Mountains with the same or worse level of poverty. It's a good book and way better than the TV series they made from it.
You're right about the beauty of where you live. That would be a balm in any Gilead, I think. But knowing you make a difference is, too. I'm sure you are a blessing to many kids and families.
I agree with Kaitiesbirds. Christy is a great read. I've read it over several times. It reminds me of the reason I do what I do. It's not about the money or prestige. It's about the kids.
I pray God protects you in your home visits and court hearings. After seeing your beautiful pictures and visiting Maine, I bet the Olympic athletes wish they were competing there rather than polluted Bejing.
Thank you for doing this work on behalf of all of us. June
Hi Beth, I added my donation link to Team in Training on my blog site. Have a nice weekend.
Great blessing list, I'm all for happy endings...
I loved my community job even when it involved less than pleasant home visits. What beautiful sky and country to enjoy as you drive around. What a nice affirming post.
I would love to know more about your work. REALLY love to. Both of our hearts belong to children and making their world a better place. This post was the first time I actually began to "get" what you do. Tell more! xo Marianne
This is so sweet. You do make a difference, I believe. Your work is purposeful and meaningful.
Why is the air so acrid? I am curious..are some homes heated with wood or coal, is that it?
How difficult it must be to walk out of a house and leave neglected children behind, knowing what they face.
I know you and your colleagues are doing everything you can...
True, you are blessed, Beth.
Hmm.. thanks for making me a little more grateful about the work I do.
Lovely pics!
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