Fulfillment.

I began my new job today working with Intellectually and Developmentally Disabled adolescents. The process of landing this job was intensity itself, and if I hadn't made the decision nearly there months ago to pull up my bootstraps and get sober for real this time, I don't think I'd be where I am right now. I feel so fulfilled - it was a wonderful day with wonderful co-workers and a positive atmosphere.

No more of that "I might die today" mentality that loomed above my psyche every day I worked at the psychiatric facility. Completely different professional environment and philosophical attitude.

I'm thrilled at the progress I've made since getting clean. That methoxetamine really did a number on me over all those months, but I no longer express psychotic symptoms and can look people in the eyes again. I'm back to a realistic weight for my tallness, and have such a more positive outlook. The last thing I needed, though, was the continuing pains of unemployment - so many days spent adrift in a sea of purposeless existential purgatory!

I like being able to look myself in the mirror again; I have finally rediscovered the love my eyes project.

Happy days, serene nights. What more could I ask for?

Good evening, Bluelight :D

~ vaya

 

congrats on finding a fulfilling job that you enjoy and on getting clean!!

i've been looking into getting a job similar to yours, i just need to get off my ass and go apply. :D

 

Thanks, this is easily the best foundation/"company"/facility I've worked for yet. Administration actually seems to give a shit about direct care staff... whodathunkit??

What field specifically are you lookin' at? Mental Health?

 

eventually i'll be getting into social work, but right now i just want something to pad my resume some and will still be flexible with my school schedule. i've had a few friends that have done home care for developmentally disabled before and it seemed like a good gig. they just helped them cook, clean, took them to movies and stuff, dispensed meds, etc. and sometimes were able to study on the job. i know they had issues with administration though, which is why i'm somewhat hesitant.

 

Vaya, this is so great to hear (both how you are doing personally and that the work is satisfying and meaningful to you. The fact that even the company seems good is icing on the cake.) I work with kids too and I find that it is rewarding on every level: intellectual, emotional and philosophical. I am also lucky to work at a school where the faculty accepts each kid as unique. What a concept!

 

eventually i'll be getting into social work, but right now i just want something to pad my resume some and will still be flexible with my school schedule. i've had a few friends that have done home care for developmentally disabled before and it seemed like a good gig. they just helped them cook, clean, took them to movies and stuff, dispensed meds, etc. and sometimes were able to study on the job. i know they had issues with administration though, which is why i'm somewhat hesitant.

You'll always have some resistance to compassion from administration, simply because the field is so underfunded and administration is aware that they undercut those who perform the most work at the facilities, but are simply unwilling or unable to make significant alterations in compensation and treatment due to budgetary issues. It's sad, because these clients of ours (both at RTF's and acute treatment facilities) *really* have no alternative in life. I believe for the sake of humanity they ought to be treated to as solid a life as is possible to provide for them.

Good to hear your aspirations, you should let me know if you find anything in the field, or want any advice!

What a concept!

Couldn't agree more... and thanks for your kind words! I have learned *so* much about myself after having committed to work like this... with schizophrenia, RAD, IED, IDD, ODD, BPD, ADHD, chemical dependency, ASD, dementia/Alzheimer's.... it generally doesnt matter, it's the act of not focusing on myself that provides the greatest clarification of who it is I actually am