Change

One of the things I do appreciate about my job is my supervisor. In the very short time I've known her, C has helped rekindle my passion for social work and my attitude for life. In school my profs were very active politically (for better or for worse, they fought for what they believed in) and socially. They make you believe that yes, one social worker can change the world.

Well, you graduate and being in the field was a little disheartening. I just felt like the system (and there are many in the field) was so flawed. The administration was too far removed from the trenches of working with clients, and it was always about numbers. And money. And the lack of money, which means the lack of service.

Truly, there's no wonder why there's such a high turnover in social work. Now, people know going into the field that the pay is ridiculously low, but you believe that making a difference will make it worthwhile. Then you get into the field, and suddenly it doesn't feel like you can make a difference - almost as though the system is preventing change. So you have crappy pay and a frustrating job. Hmmm....

After speaking with C the other day (and many of her views are different from my own), I became very aware of my cynical attitude. She is very involved in many grass root movements. She spoke about change, and how it feels like the system doesn't believe that anyone can turn their life around. We were chatting about one situation she knew about, and in the back of my mind I was thinking "Really though? Do you think she changed?" But I listened politely and asked some questions, trying to get the full story. She had such a refreshing perspective, and spoke with such sincerity and passion, almost to tears over this story. I couldn't help but feel a little chided over my doubtful attitude.

Driving to work today, I was thinking more about our conversation, and it just dawned on me: if I don't believe in change, then what do I believe as a Christian? As a social worker who is also a Christian? Can one person truly change? By God's grace, I've been changed (and it looks like I need more changing!). If I can change, surely anyone can change, yes?

Now I won't get into how closely linked social work and Christianity is in my mind, and how there is also an incredible disconnect. But wow, of course, change can happen... and it does happen all of the time. Christ brought change. Freedom. Life. Thankfully, He is also living in me, so that I may share His love with others, that they too may be changed.

I'm realizing that this is an all over the place post, but I'm re-thinking the role that I've been living, and what role I *should* be living. Boy, in day to day living, it can be really tempting to become complacent and think the worst, blaming it on "reality". As a Christian and a social worker, I have such wonderful access into others' lives. What a joy and blessing to have this opportunity. It's also quite a challenge.

So can change happen? Oh, Lord, please forgive my cynical nature, and give me an active faith to share your love with those around me.