I never lost my faith in humanity so I never needed it restored.
Yes, I have seen some nastiness and met monsters in human form. But those are individual people , they are not the entire species.
I could not do what I do if I didn’t see each person and gauge who they want me to see them as and also who I see them becoming.
Cranky. I sound cranky and occasionally mean, but I am not.
Working with poor and marginalized populations has to be done with a level of joy. Joy and love and faith in people are the best shields from burning out and depression.
Yes, some cases freak me out or momentarily depress me – but my faith in humanity remains in tact and well used.
This job, and also the job of being a mother, requires me to pick my attitude and be deliberate in my perspectives.
Homeless in LA © 