OMG!!!

Well,
As you can see, I totally phased out and misplaced the last two days.  We had unexpected guests and it really played a huge part in throwing me off my game.  Anyway, here goes.  The last blog of the semester!!!  I will be honest and say that I originally thought the blogging idea was a bit cheesy, but after a semester of writing and reading blogs, I realize it is a very smart way to make sure we're covering the readings and hearing the voices of those who don't speak in class.  I really appreciated Professor G.  I would like to think that everyone was sad when they didn't see my blog yesterday...however, I know that with the end of the semester, everyone is experiencing that sweet sorrow that happens when you realize that it's over.  The relationships that we build, the experiences that we share, and the sometimes overwhelming workload has come to an end and while it brings such joy, we realize that we must break those bonds that we have shared for an entire semester and move on.  Only to have to start the cycle all over again if you're not graduating.

So keeping with the spirit of what the blogging was intended to do, I would just like to say a few things about Social Justice.  When I used to think of how I could affect change, I never contemplated that it would require social action.  Anytime groups are experiencing injustices, then what is needed is social justice.  Included in social justice is social planning, social development, and social action.  These require individuals that are committed and dedicated to seeing the end of the "ISMS".  Throughout the years, civil rights leader, advocates and allies have been the leading forces of social change.  It's time social workers were added to that list.  We are responsible for advocating and procuring justice for the clients we serve and society at large.  Just like when doctors take an oath to save lives, the social work profession requires social workers to live by a code of ethics that lift us above the normal citizen.  Whether it's rallying for the Trayvon Manors of the world or standing against funding cuts to Planned Parenthood, we must pick a side and choose to fight injustice. 

Okay, I'll get off my soap box.  In closing I will leave you with this.  "When you look around the world and see others suffering and choose to do nothing, perhaps you have chosen the wrong career."
Social Justice is what social workers should always strive to achieve.  What you do when no one is looking is just as important as what you do when the whole world is watching.

Until we meet again....