June 9, 2007
“Lord, may those who love you, rise like the sun in all its glory”
Other than being a part of the birth of my daughter, I have never felt a closer relationship to God than I do when practicing Peer Support. Through my work with the consumer band, I am realizing that no one can direct another person’s recovery. As a Peer Supporter I provide, encouragement, hope, empathy, and many other basic humane traits, and in return I get the same back from those I am working with. To some these may seem as if these principals are based on religion, but actually the idea that humans have a spiritual nature can be found in, philosophy, psychiatry, medicine, and even ancient cave paintings. As each human being is different, the system is at its best when it provides a base for consumers to be who they truly are.
I have played in bands before; Barry has taken lessons and can read music. Lamasa, and Clifford have done neither, however, they bring, energy, love, compassion, and excitement to the band. I do not provide Case Management, Counseling, or any of the other myriad systematic resources a consumer needs in his/her recovery process. A clear example of my role as Peer Supporter would be: 1) a world renowned cancer surgeon who has never been sick a day in his life 2) a cancer survivor support group. Not only would the surgeon be unwelcome at the weekly meetings, he would have no idea how to relate to what they have gone through. As Peer Supporters we merely provide that basis of familiarity and trust so that others may feel comfortable navigating their way through a complicated system of service delivery.
Mostly what we are hoping to happen at this event is 1) have tons of fun and learning
2) administrators to get a raw look at exactly how consumers feel 3) everyone come away with plans of creating new ways of cooperation for the near and the distant future.
Reminder: Charles MeKaru of Customer Services tells me he is not getting a large response from the community regarding the Consumer Award ceremony on Peer Support & Empowerment Day’. Maybe if I describe what we have in store, more of you will send in nominations. Over the last 2 weeks ‘Recovery’ the consumer band, has been working on a song specifically for this event. Each of us has put our spirit into perfecting this song, as it will be our gift to consumers. And we are proud of the progress we have made, and are going to be even prouder to see the reaction of those to whom this day is dedicated. The Award ceremony shall begin while we are still playing our special song, and Veda Sharp will begin giving out Awards. So send in your nominations and bring your cameras ASAP.
No comments:
Post a Comment