Social Work is a helping profession cleverly disguised as a paper-processing plant. For those of you that were already aware of this, you still don't have any idea...
My real peeve of the week? Radio commercials involving sound effects from cars. Who the hell thought this was a good idea? Did you earn a marketing degree from an accredited institution? Well, here's a clue. Causing the poor, average consumer to believe that something is wrong with his/her car while he/she is doing 70 MPH on an interstate highway WILL NOT MAKE THAT PERSON WANT TO BUY YOUR PRODUCT! I hope you walk to work, marketing genius, because it could be your vehicle into which I swerve the next time your commericials air.
( 5:40 PM ) Meghan
Wednesday, January 30, 2002
So I woke up this morning and decided that I was finished feeling sorry for myself after a lousy day at work. And on my commute, I asked God to help me make today better. And oddly enough, today was phenomenally more fulfilling, both personally and professionally. The highlight (as expected) was Craig Abrahamson facilitating an excellent progress meeting with my supervisor and myself and reassuring me that I am exactly where I should be in the learning stage of Practicum. Telling me that I didn't have to study for the comprehensive final was a definite plus.
And after all this time I still remain amazed at the power of prayer. Man, I have got to stop underestimating Omnipotent Beings, you think?
( 5:27 PM ) Meghan
Monday, January 28, 2002
Yes, the rumors are true. Practicum has been more than heartbreak and disappointment for me. I found out last week that by the end of the semester, I will be an official intake worker. I also sense from today's occurrences that there may be dangerous times of observation and home visits in the near future. Not that I want to be the James Bond of Social Services, but...well, yeah, I kinda do.
"Do you expect me to talk, Goldfinger?"
"No, Mr. Bond. I expect you to file an emergency protective order."
Now I return to saving the world, one child at a time!
( 5:33 PM ) Meghan
Saturday, January 26, 2002
Damn, if inspiration wouldn't strike while I'm trying to study...the following is dedicated to all of my friends, but especially those who have asked me if I consider them normal. Never utter such falsehoods. Here is why.
Normal, Average Ponderings
I’m a normal, average person
With normal, average looks.
I own normal, average clothing
And read normal, average books.
I have normal, average interests
And cry normal, average tears,
Dream normal, average schoolgirl dreams
And sweat normal, average fears.
I’m of normal, average height and weight
With normal, average hair
(Curls of brown that get torn up
when wind is in the air).
My normal, average being
Used to have me quite concerned,
But through my normal, average years,
There are things that I have learned.
That normal, average living
Really isn’t quite so hard.
There are many times when I have played
The normal, average card.
Contracting normal, average illness
Requires normal, average cures.
I sleep normal, average patterns
With normal, average snores.
For normal, average worries
I’m given normal, average care.
And my normal, average habits
Draw only normal, average stares.
There's one aspect of my life that breaks
These normal, average trends:
One normal, average thing I lack
Is normal, average friends.
They wouldn’t be my friends
If they were normal, average folks
For we share Grade A humor
With our classic puns and jokes.
Our stellar conversation
Is an outlier to the rest.
And the warmth is exponential
For I gather with the best.
I sleep soundly knowing I’m not cast
A normal, average curse,
As might be the conclusion
From this normal, average verse.
For my friends assure me
They do not have normal, average taste
And would never pay me mind
If I filled normal, average space.
They tell me that they’re sorry
I play no normal, average part,
For I demonstrate exception
To a normal, average heart.
It takes more than average intellect
And love to speak such words.
And normalcy does not include
Supremacy, I've heard.
Well, I suppose that I am not
So mainstream after all,
Based on esteemed opinions
And some special judgment calls.
I want for all my comrades
To also realize
That normal, average views of you
Have never glazed my eyes.
So if you need validity
That normal's not your way,
I'll tell the world you've lied
If "average" taints your resume.
Each one of you has made me see
That I'm no normal, average girl.
Which is why I know it's us who'll change
This normal, average world.
( 12:31 PM ) Meghan
Friday, January 25, 2002
My anger is ignited by men who beat children to death with extension cords and women who plunge babies into scalding water so they'll stop crying. My anger is ignited by fathers who rape their daughters and pregnant women who take crack and drink alcohol without a thought for the tiny souls they are damning to a lifetime of pain. Babies in dumpsters. Drug overdoses. Burns, cuts, gunshot wounds. Wasted minds and ruined lives. My anger is ignited by a society that pays lipservice to its children while treating them as nothing more than a marketing demographic and by schools that are falling apart and teachers so numbed by violence and fear that they've stopped teaching. But what's really pissing me off today is a room full of supposed grown-ups who think that bad drivers and loud talkers and hips are worth getting angry about when all the rest of that actual evil is loose in the world.
--Maxine Gray, Judging Amy ( 5:20 PM ) Meghan
Thursday, January 24, 2002
The sex offender is a person in your neighborhood, in your neighborhood, in your neighborhood...
Here's an opportunity to find out who your neighbor is. You might be surprised.
( 1:24 PM ) Meghan
Tuesday, January 22, 2002
O Mary, bright dawn of the new world, Mother of the living, to you do we entrust the cause of life: Look down, O Mother, upon the vast numbers of babies to be born, of the poor whose lives are made difficult, of men and women who are victims of brutal violence, of the elderly and the sick killed by indifference or out of misguided mercy. Grant that all who believe in your Son may proclaim the Gospel of life with honesty and love to the people of our time. Obtain for them the grace to accept that Gospel as a gift ever new, the joy of celebrating it with gratitude throughout their lives and the courage to bear witness to it resolutely, in order to build, together with all people of good will, the civilization of truth and love, to the praise and glory of God, the Creator and lover of life.
--Pope John Paul II
Today is the 29th anniversary of the Supreme Court case Roe vs. Wade, the decision that made abortion legal in the United States. Please take a moment today to pray or think about all the people that have lost their lives for the sake of choice, and all the people who need physical, financial, and emotional assistance so that they are able to save the lives that remain. Realize that we have been mourning since September for the thousands that died this past year from terrorist acts, but that we so infrequently give a second thought to the millions of babies that are killed every year by their own mothers. Which, indeed, is the greater tragedy?
It might also be something to consider that Norma McCorvey, the real "Roe" now runs a Pro-Life Ministry in Texas (Roe No More). Her story is fascinating. Please take a moment to read if you can.
( 11:18 AM ) Meghan
Saturday, January 19, 2002
I am Mario.
I like to jump around, and would lead a fairly serene and aimless existence if it weren't for my friends always getting into trouble. I love to help out, even when it puts me at risk. I seem to make friends with people who just can't stay out of trouble.
"And I saw my reflection in the snow-covered hills..."
And I'm wondering who wants to go out and play?
( 11:03 AM ) Meghan
To prove I'm not self-absorbed and whiny all the time, I will now take this moment to respond to those of your blogs that warrant feedback.
Ryan, don't be so surprised that I linked to your blog...how could I not? See if you can rub some of that frequent-updating syndrome on your boyfriend. Despite that, I will not refer to you as "FitzC, Royal Magistrate and Cocksucker Extraordinaire," but rather "Ryan, who happens to be pretty damn cool." That's close enough, right?
Amy, that information on animals engaging in self-destructive behavior is fascinating. Dogs will do that when bored after being left alone for too long by chewing or licking the same place repeatedly. Usually when the owner's absence becomes chronic.
HOORAY for Catherine obtaining a job at Java Junction--everybody at Tech best beware of the newest working woman!
"She works hard for the money. So hard for it, honey.
She works hard for the money. So you better treat her right.
Twenty-[one] years have come and gone.
And she's seen a lot of tears
Of the ones who come in.
They really seem to need her there."
Justinne and Justin, update your blogs! I know where you live. Especially Justinne.
Oh, and nobody fill out Jason's survey. Your results are the key information he needs to perfect time travel so that he can journey to the future and consume the spleens of your children. Wait. I mean...they're...not. Seriously, though, everyone should do it. It's a good reflective exercise on your opinions of counter-terrorism measures.
( 10:59 AM ) Meghan
Friday, January 18, 2002
So this morning's senior seminar has turned out disastrous for my feelings of self-worth. Everyone else gets their own caseloads, real responsibilities. How much am I going to learn in a placement where virtually all of what I do is watch? I'm tired of being treated like a student--the reason we have practicum is so I can finally be treated as a social worker. I didn't spend three and a half years at JMU dedicating my life to social work for nothing, and I want to show off my qualifications. I need to..so that I know this is right for me...so I can apply my skills. God, if there's a reason you put me here, I'd appreciate knowing what it is soon.
( 12:22 PM ) Meghan
- At the appearance of textual segues
- At any reference to the number 37
- Whenever Dante says, "I'm not even supposed to be here today!"
- Anytime Jay says "bitch" or any derivation therof
- When a customer buys cigarettes
- Whenever Randall locks or unlocks the video store
- Whenever someone points out the shoe polish odor
Finish your drink:
- When Silent Bob speaks!
Copyright 12 January 2002. This activity is rated MA--for Mature Alcoholics only.
Thanks to all who attended my birthday celebration on Saturday, as well as those of you who would have attended had circumstances been more forgiving. To say the least, I had an incredible time and am sure to feel the love (and the lapdance) all year long.
( 5:48 PM ) Meghan
Sunday, January 13, 2002
And suddenly, all was right with the world.
( 7:43 PM ) Meghan
Saturday, January 12, 2002
It would be helpful if I could manage to make it through this practicum without playing the part of a complete screw-up. With the amount of duties I don't have, you would think it would be simple enough...
I vow to forget about all that during the course of the continued birthday celebrations tonight at Stonegate. Hopefully they'll be slightly less convoluted than those from last night. Although, for the most part, I did have quite alot of fun. Thank you, Jason, for the toast, Mike, for the acceptance, Justinne, for being brave, and Andrew, for the teamwork.
( 12:47 PM ) Meghan
Thursday, January 10, 2002
"Well I'm lost at 22 and I've got no fucking clue.
No I don't know if things will work out right.
I'm lost and confused.
I'm lost at 22 and I don't know if my life's gonna end up right
'Cause they keep on telling me that I'm young, dumb and naive.
But that's just what they want me to believe."
--Life of Agony, Lost at 22
( 8:21 PM ) Meghan
Wednesday, January 09, 2002
It's an unfortunate occurrence when you lose the distinction between intellectual discussion and knock-down, drag-out, here-to-prove-you-wrong argument. So as not to be too obnoxiously vague, a discussion on racism took a few wrong turns tonight here at 1817 B. There was yelling...offense was taken at several points during the discourse. And knowing that I hurt someone cuts me twice as deep as any outside party hurting me. Sigh. Why can't I just let these things go? They haven't gotten anywhere so far, why do I even bother? Hmmm...perhaps that was the mindset of every abolitionist at the halfway point to the goal. Do I now feel trivial or inspired?
Either way, tomorrow is my birthday. What a wonderful present it would be if for one day there were no fights, no yelling, no hurt. Just love, and hugs, and cake. That's all I ever really wanted anyway. And maybe some intellectual discussion that doesn't rage the warpath...
( 10:36 PM ) Meghan
And thus has begun my journey into the professional world. It has been interesting so far, although they won't let me do anything on my own. Let's hear it for liability! But all of my colleagues have been wonderful so far in terms of inviting me into their world. I can see why. Sometimes it feels lonely in the company of nuts.
Tomorrow I'll be doing school visits with my supervisor, which I am really excited about. Heads up! Reality --> Straight Ahead.
( 5:57 PM ) Meghan
Monday, January 07, 2002
Wow, the first time I've ever felt ambivalent about snowfall. I think I'm getting old. Not so old that I can't enjoy guerilla snow warfare and sliding (or falling and losing my keys) down the hills of Stonegate. And now to think about going to work. Although the weather has certainly distracted me from the paranoia of my performance. Oh, Abraham Maslow. Never have you failed me.
( 6:39 AM ) Meghan
Saturday, January 05, 2002
So far, the most fun (and most time spent) I've had with one of these surveys.
1) Are you male or female?
"Been an awful good girl..."
--Eartha Kitt
2) Describe your neighborhood.
"Educated in a small town,
Taught the fear of Jesus in a small town,
Used to daydream in that small town,
Another boring romantic that's me...
No, I cannot forget where it is that I come from,
I cannot forget the people who love me.
Yeah, I can be myself here in this small town,
And people let me be just what I want to be."
--John Cougar Mellencamp
3) How do you look?
"I'm too sexy for this song."
--Right Said Fred
4) If you could say something to the person you like, what would it be?
"We may never, never meet again on the bumpy road to love.
Still I'll always, always keep that memory of
The way you hold your knife,
The way we danced 'til three,
The way you changed my life.
Oh, they can't take that away from me!
No they can't take that away from me."
--Frank Sinatra
5) Where do you wish you were right now?
"Living in a fantasy world..."
--Survivor
6) What would you say to your best friend?
"You're everything I know that makes me believe I'm not alone."
--Michelle Branch
7) Any words of wisdom?
"You with the sad eyes,
Don't be discouraged.
Oh I realize,
It's hard to take courage
In a world full of people,
You can lose sight of it all
And the darkness, inside you
Can make you feel so small.
But I see your true colors shining through.
I see your true colors
And that's why I love you.
So don't be afraid to let them show.
Your true colors,
True colors are beautiful
Like a rainbow."
--Phil Collins
8) What do you wish you were doing right now?
"If we took a holiday,
Took some time to celebrate.
Just one day out of life,
It would be, it would be so nice."
--Madonna
9) What do you think of drugs and alcohol?
"Well maybe just a half a drink more...
Put some records on while I pour."
--Dean Martin
10) If you could say one thing to your enemy, what would it be?
"I'm stronger than yesterday. Now it's nothin' but my way."
--Britney Spears
11) What do you usually do on Friday nights?
"I'd rather laugh with the sinners than cry with the saints--
the sinners are much more fun."
--Billy Joel
12) What do you think about school?
"Be true to your school now,
Just like you would to your girl or guy.
Be true to your school now
And let your colors fly."
--The Beach Boys
13) How do you feel right now?
"For the times, they are a changin'..."
--Bob Dylan
14) Any closing words?
"You may hate me, but it ain't no lie, baby,
Bye bye bye."
--N'SYNC
( 1:20 AM ) Meghan
Thursday, January 03, 2002
Ah, first blog of the new year. So far, I have absorbed at least a cup of cheer. From braving the rainforests with Jason to Brian's splendid gathering on the Eve and a lovely Mary Kay party last night. Major props to Justin for providing a rare specimen for the associates in training...despite that you lost all masculinity points over your vitamin supplements ;) And how else could the lovely ladies top off the joy other than with a glamorous trip to IHOP? I hope the year comes full circle with such a rhythm.
In the meantime, I have a new job for which to prepare myself. So in that "spirit..."
You're Jewel!
The Poetic Sweetheart
"Don't worry mother, it'll be alright.
And don't worry sister, say your prayers and sleep tight.
It'll be fine lover of mine,
It'll be just fine.
Lend your voices only to sounds of freedom,
No longer lend your strength to that which you wish to be free from.
Fill your lives with love and bravery
And you shall lead a life uncommon.
I've heard your anguish, I've heard your hearts cry out,
We are tired, we are weary, but we aren't worn out.
Set down your chains, until only faith remains.
Set down your chains.
And lend your voices only to sounds of freedom,
No longer lend your strength to that which you wish to be free from.
Fill your lives with love and bravery
And we shall lead a life uncommon.
There are plenty of people who pray for peace,
But if prayer were enough it would have come to be.
Let your words enslave no one and the heavens will hush themselves
To hear our voices ring out clear
With sounds of freedom.
Sounds of freedom.
Come on you unbelievers, move out of the way!
There is a new army coming and we are armed with faith.
To live, we must give.
To live.
And lend our voices only to sounds of freedom,
No longer lend our strength to that which we wish to be free from.
Fill your lives with love and bravery,
And we shall lead a life uncommon.
