When I worked in social services, I had many experiences that I consider life 'gifts'. I worked with a variety of clients coming from a variety of life experiences. All of them were valuable human beings. And I approached them that way. Even though working with people is difficult and tense sometimes, I tried to maintain relationships with them. I wanted to know who they were as human beings. I was able to look past the illness and see the person. I attribute that directly to Maxine, who taught me that underneath the illness is a father, mother, son, daughter, or sibling. I tried to make love the core of my approach. And it was received. I know that because many clients thanked me. I carry those thanks in my heart. I know that I've had an impact in this world.
The person focused on in this article is one reason I know this. I have Maureen's permission to tell you about this. She is a former client. Now clean and sober. And in recovery from severe depression. Maureen Herman has an interesting background. She is a musician. She was a part of the group Babes in Toyland. Maureen is also a writer. She has even written for Rolling Stone. She is currently writing a book. ("It's a Memoir Motherfucker"). This memoir will talk about her experiences dealing with alcoholism/addiction and mental illness. She will also talk about her experiences in trying to get help. Including the time we worked together. She originally tracked me down on social media after we hadn't been in contact for a long time. I've loved having the opportunity to get reacquainted.
One of her projects is writing for The Huffington Post. About recovery. And Maureen has a lot to say. I hope that all of you check out her article. I find her story inspiring. Maureen hit a serious bottom. Obviously, even people with intelligence and talent struggle. I'm describing Maureen. But I bet I'm describing you too. We are people with skills. We are people of worth. Mental illness does not mean worthless. And we deserve recovery. Here is my hope that you find your recovery. Just as I am. And just like my friend Maureen has. One day at a time......
Link: http://huff.to/1td76Rw.
The person focused on in this article is one reason I know this. I have Maureen's permission to tell you about this. She is a former client. Now clean and sober. And in recovery from severe depression. Maureen Herman has an interesting background. She is a musician. She was a part of the group Babes in Toyland. Maureen is also a writer. She has even written for Rolling Stone. She is currently writing a book. ("It's a Memoir Motherfucker"). This memoir will talk about her experiences dealing with alcoholism/addiction and mental illness. She will also talk about her experiences in trying to get help. Including the time we worked together. She originally tracked me down on social media after we hadn't been in contact for a long time. I've loved having the opportunity to get reacquainted.
One of her projects is writing for The Huffington Post. About recovery. And Maureen has a lot to say. I hope that all of you check out her article. I find her story inspiring. Maureen hit a serious bottom. Obviously, even people with intelligence and talent struggle. I'm describing Maureen. But I bet I'm describing you too. We are people with skills. We are people of worth. Mental illness does not mean worthless. And we deserve recovery. Here is my hope that you find your recovery. Just as I am. And just like my friend Maureen has. One day at a time......
Link: http://huff.to/1td76Rw.
No comments:
Post a Comment