Gifts
by Audrey Morrison, MSW
I have spent much of the past month pondering and reflecting. What is it about being a social worker that resonates with me? The conclusion I arrived at was multi-faceted, as is the world of social work.
I feel honored to be able to connect with people on a very intimate level. I feel privileged to journey with them along their healing path. Several examples spring to mind: the teen whose parents have rejected her because of a difference in religious beliefs and needed therapy to work through that rejection, as well as assistance to navigate systems to live independently; the adult male whose addiction had cost him his marriage and his family; the young person transitioning from female to male and all of the monumental hurdles that came along with that transition.
The clients who allow me to journey with them have enriched my life both personally and professionally. I have learned to acknowledge my biases and check them at the door. I have learned how to set very clear boundaries. I have learned a very valuable lesson in self-care. I have learned how to give people the tools to help with healing. I have learned how to be a strong advocate, and I have taught clients how to self-advocate. I have learned to be a good listener. Most importantly, I have learned that everyone has a story - a lived experience that is unique to them.
I love the variety that social work allows me. In my day job, I work with teens, and I interact with other service providers and systems. Sometimes I collide with those systems, and that is important social work, too. Where there is injustice, it is important to speak out, speak loudly (figuratively), and shake things up. In my private practice, I am able to connect with a variety of clients in remote locations, thanks to the miracle of the Internet. I love being able to provide service to clients by secure video, email, or phone who are otherwise unable to access service because of where they live. My career is robust. Every day is a different adventure, and it’s rarely ever dull.
Social work resonates with my own values. I believe strongly in self-determination. I value respect of people. I am passionate about human rights. I hold firmly to the ideals of social justice and admire the work of those who have gone before me. Social work mirrors my values, and we are a very good fit for each other.
Lest you paint me as a romantic, let me be clear. Being a social worker is not idyllic. It is not for the faint of heart. I have experienced moments of frustration, joy, rage, and contentment. I feel as if I have finally landed where I was meant to be, and it feels good.
Audrey Morrison
Audrey Morrison
Audrey Morrison, MSW, is a school social worker and has a private virtual practice.