Happy Social Worker's Day!

One of the trainers for the Family Violence course said this (paraphrased):

"I was feeling cash rich one day while I was shopping with my wife. We went into this jewellery shop and I wanted to get her a ring. She refused and rejected my offer. I began to feel frustrated and really wanted to get it for her. I didn't quite know why I was frustrated. After awhile, I realised the answer. As a man, I really wanted to impress the salesgirl. I wanted to impress her so much as a man who is loving his wife. I started as wanting to get something for my wife but my ultimate motive was not to impress my wife but the salesgirl. As a man, there is this unseen pride and ego that needs to be satisfied."

Honestly, I didn't really care about what pride and what ego. I was very humbled by his humility to admit his weakness as a man.

He brought this up to share that in Family Violence, it's in the little nitty gritty things that can cause a person to tip the edge and aggravated the angry person within. Therefore, as a Social Worker or counselor or anybody who's working with the family must listen to both sides of the story.

Today is Social Worker's Day. I was awoken by a few friends sms-ing me on the 8-page newpaper clippings. Even my dad told me! When I saw the Tribute page to those who have pioneered Social Work in Singapore. The person who captured me most is Mrs Ann Wee. In my Grad Dip course, she came to give a "speech". Hmm.. Frankly, if you ask me what was that speech all about, I do not know. Dr Tan started the class and made an introduction of the old & frail lady - Mrs Ann Wee. EVEN though I can't remember what was the speech all about, I do remember thinking what an incredible lady she is! She helped pioneered Social Work. Her passion for people is beyond limits. She spoke with zest, with passion and an energy that I pray and hope to have.

In the papers, I can't help but notice that alot of emphasy was given to the fact that the demand for Social Workers are high, the returns of satisfaction is also high BUT the pay is low and many has dropped out of this profession because of this very reason. Hmm.. at that moment, I do really wonder - When one has decided on this profession, isn't he/she ready for the low pay & high amount of work? *shrug* I do get sad whenever I hear people getting out of this profession because there is SO much to do.. I pray only that I will stick it out!

Anyhow! Happy Social Worker's Day to all my colleagues and those who have been in this small circle of profession!