Division of a Country

The Pledge of Allegiance itself has become a contradiction, thanks to the world of politics. "One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all." That one statement illustrates the sad fragmentation of our nation at present. Republicans are all about enforcing a nation "under God", yet many have no opposition to withholding liberty and justice for millions inhabiting this country. And Democrats like to preach about "liberty and justice for all", yet many verbalize extreme oppostion to being a member of a nation "under God". Both Republicans and Democrats are equally guilty in causing such extreme division as we find ourselves facing in this nation today. And yet how often do any of us step back and truly evaluate, in an unbiased manner, the ethics, morals, and policies of each party? We all become so encapsulated by the media's portrayal of what this Republican said, or what that Democrat did, that we often fail to see the personal reality of the individual Conservative or Liberal. Maybe if we took the time to step back (and keep our mouths shut for more than 2 seconds), we'd see that many Conservatives don't necessarily believe that abortion and conducting stem cell research on zygotes constitutes murder and that many Liberals aren't necessarily atheists. And I admit personally, that it is very difficult to view politics from an unbiased perspective; it's difficult to recognize the intracacies and nuances of individual political beliefs; and it is quite easy to see the nation in black and white (or more accurately, blue and red). Inevitably, there will always be difference of political opinions, but must we allow it to dictate our existence to such a point of division? And if we continue to insist on adamant opposition of the differing party, can we not at least have the awareness and respect to realize that one person's words or actions do not constitue the totality of a party. My final point is this: I am a proud Democrat, and yet I am not racist nor prejudiced. Yes, it was a Democrat that made derogatory and degrading illustrations towards Rice as new Sec. of State. But it was not me. Therefore, being a Democrat does not make me racist or prejudiced. To all those Republicans, was it you that stood in front of a nation on various occasions and spoke with ignorance and lack of compassion? No. Being a Republican does not mean that you lack the intelligence and grace with which to address delicate issues. So, instead of judging one another based on political affiliation, let us instead begin to truly see one another and to realize that I, nor you, are defined by politics...we are defined by the essence of who we truly are as individuals.

a moment when fantasy and reality became one 

you have to be a little crazy

So it's always said that people that go into the field of psychology must be a little crazy themselves. I definitely agree with that. I mean, look at me! For anyone who knows me well, I certainly fit the profile. And my personal opinion...any shrink that appears normal is not one that I personally would trust anyways. Those are the ones that don't know what the hell they are talking about. Sure, they know the academic textbook memorizations of theories and techniques, but what about the actual experience? Empathy and true compassion, my friends...these are the most important keys when working in the mental health field...at least in my opinion:)
So this morning I'm sitting in treatment team and we're discussing the new cases that were referred to our agency since last week. One case really grabbed everyone's attention...a teenage boy, originally orphaned in a foreign country, now in the States having been abandoned by his adoptive American parents. It's a very sad and heartbreaking story...this child has witnessed far more than any human ever should, and so my heart automatically went out to him (along with that of every other person in the meeting...bless my dear coworkers' souls...such goodhearted people). But then came the telling of this child's major behavior problems that have escalated to the point of multiple psychiatric hospitalizations and removal from numerous foster homes. So, at this point, everyone is still feeling empathy for the kid but nobody wants to work the case. But of course, I boldy ask if I may have the assignment (to which obviously no one argues), and then come the ensuing looks of amazement and confusion from the other therapists. You can read on their faces, "why does she want this case? is she crazy?" And the answers to those questions are: I wanted the case because we often forget that the outward manifestation (i.e. behavior) is merely an expression of the inner world (in this case, extreme trauma and turmoil). And yes, I am certifiably crazy....and damn proud of it! I wouldn't be able to do the work I do if I'd never experienced all those moments of my life that seemed insurmountable...and then made me stronger.
So, here's what today brought me....a deeper compassion for those unfortunate children that are living in this world emotionally alone, and a greater appreciation for the experiences of my life that have made it possible for me to help these children. Thank God I'm a little bit crazy!

Provoking thought for the day: what did today bring you?