Deaf Ears

In starting my graduate education in social work I have come across various points in my studies which require me to look at myself critically, analytically and both as a whole and part of a larger system. It's a process of self-awareness in addition to edifying one's self in concepts unknown.

I just competed a reading which inspired me to write. Just jotting down some thoughts.

Intellectuals have written discourses on bi-furcated consciousness, double consciouness, perspective of the other, women of color and the oppressed. However, one doesn't realize the ties they could have to such concepts unless they're dissected and applied concretely. One could possibly go through his or her entire life without rooting themselves in such thought. This is terrible! It forces you to be blind and ignorant at the expense of yourself. I could fathom nothing worse. It is so important for one to view themselves critically and truly analyze their ecological, cultural, social, religious and environmental situation and then juxtapose each one against itself and your self.

There are so many voices to be heard. Unless you educate yourself on your stance and what you represent, your cries will fall on deaf ears.

Psychology & Social Issues at the United Nations -- My first task as a Graduate Assistant

I had one of the most exciting times of my life last night. I've recently been offered a position to work as a graduate assistant for the Dean of my university. For my very first "task", she invited me to a conference about Psychology & Social Issues at the United Nations.

Last night, I met some of the most influential people in domestic and international policy. Law-shapers and practicioners, psychiarists, psychologists, social workers, Professors, Administrators and graduate students. All of the best & brightest minds coming together to discuss today's global issues and how we can apply our expertise on an international level.

A professor from Pace University, presented a slide show from her trip to Southeast Asia. She visited Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Vietnam and Burma. And as someone else stated, "[she] gave a charming presentation on a less than charming topic." Her focus: Child trafficking. As an NGO representative for the U.N and Professor in NYC, she is putting together a publication to raise awareness on this very disheartening issue.

A forensic psychologist, from the University of Athens was there as well. She is currently working on one of the most famous cases in Greece regarding the abduction and murder of a young child by a group of older kids. She is only here for a couple of days and flies back to resume her work in Athens.

All together they discussed children's issues, women's issues, health issues, indigenous issues, social development, education (& access to or lack thereof), and mental health.

There were professors and researchers from Columbia, Pace, NYU, Hunter and Fordham to name just a few.

Aside, however, from the credentials and affiliations, these people are gathering for a common purpose - to better humanity. And for the first time, I felt like I was exactly where I was supposed to be, at this moment in time.

The Bond

Odd little thing happened on the way to the theatre.
A bond was sealed,
A friendship made neater.

Two young flocked,
Care-free and about their own ways;
Experiencing culture,
Within the last of their days.

A memory, built upon,
To be discussed thereater,
In far-off locations
Retrospective, with laughter.