The below article was in the June 17th Dear Abby section of the newspaper. As a social worker and having many friends in the field, I can definitely say this is not the most easiest job in the world. I have had many of the same response when talking about MY profession. You get people who take pity on you or those who look down on you because they think it was an easy degree. Well I will beg to differ. I really admire Abby's response.
What many people don't realize is none of us are "normal" and if it wasn't for the social workers or workers in the social service fields that we have, this world could really be worse.
- Not everyone could hotline a mother for neglecting her child, tell her you did it and continue to provide services to her.
- Not everyone could handle seeing three kids under the age of 4 being left at home for several days by themselves and they haven't eaten or taken a bath.
- Not everyone could "attempt" to keep 40 different families in their homes when they can't pay their rent.
- Not everyone can know all the different resources in a area for patients and families in need.
- Not everyone can work in a field and know that their funding may get cut next week and may not have a job but continue to serve others with a positive attitude.
I would love to know your thoughts on those who are Social workers, your honest opinions!
DEAR ABBY: Our daughter “Melanie” is finishing her master’s degree in social work. She’s excited about pursuing her future career; however, when we tell our friends about her, we get disappointing — and sometimes, hurtful — responses. Some samples: “Whose idea was that?!” “You know she’s going to starve, don’t you?” “Oh … they don’t make much money,” and “I’m sorry!” These comments come from people with whom we’ve had warm relationships for years.
We know our daughter won’t be rich. That’s not her objective. We’re proud of Melanie’s choice and how hard she has prepared. We think she’ll be a wonderful social worker. We have always been supportive of our friends’ children and their choices. Is there a way to respond to these people without being rude?
— Proud Parents in Des Moines
DEAR PROUD PARENTS: You should be proud. You have raised a daughter who will make an important contribution to the lives of those she touches. When someone makes a thoughtless comment such as the ones you mentioned, tell them what you wrote to me: “We’re proud of our daughter’s choice and how hard she has worked to prepare. We know she’ll be a wonderful social worker.” Period.
© 2011 Universal Uclick 6/18
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