Leslie

I’m going back to Texas!!!!!!!!!!

My dear friend Jennifer, who was my first friend in college, is getting married & I’m a bridesmaid.  I’m so excited for her and to be part of her wedding :)  All of my closest friends from college will also be in town for the wedding; this is the first time we’ve all been together since graduation.  These are the girls that I lived with, studied (ha!) with, and confided in for four years.  We were together 24/7 (no exaggeration) during college, and I think the fact that we were so close during such a formative time in our adult lives has cemented permanent friendships.  To say that I’m ecstatic for this reunion might be an understatement.  

Also, I’ve decided to pursue my Master’s degree.  I’m not sure of which school or program to apply to, but I know I want to work in the social work field; specifically, working with children in CPS care.  In my previous job, I was an adoption case manager.  In my current job, I supervise visits of CPS kids with their parents.  It can be difficult at times, but for the most part I genuinely enjoy it.  Obviously, there’s reasons why CPS stepped into these families’ lives.  But a lot of these parents are seeking to overcome their past and doing everything they can to create a healthier home environment for their children, as well as better relationships with them.  I have a lot of respect for that, and I enjoy being part of such a potentially wonderful restoration of families.  On the flip side, there are situations in which a biological parent is unwilling or financially, mentally, emotionally, etc, unable to parent their child and adoption really is the best option.  That in itself is a thing of beauty because a child is still able to have a wonderful home with parents who genuinely love him/her.  

I realize that the little experience I have in this field might cause me to see it through some rose-colored lenses.  But as evidenced by individuals in the Bible and even my own family members, God is highly capable of healing and restoration of broken lives.  I have no reason to believe that families involved with CPS are exceptions to that restoration.  All of this to say that I’m seeing myself develop a strong interest, possibly even a life passion, for this type of work and I think a Master’s degree could only help me to be more effective in helping people.  

Side note: I’ve started toying with the idea of eventually becoming a foster parent.  And by eventually, I mean after I’ve been married for a few years, and Lord knows when that’s going to happen.  But it’s a thought to mull over every once in a while. 

In summary: I’m pretty stoked about my life.  It’s a good feeling.