More Fate Than Choice.

I work in a public mental health clinic. Ours is a highly regulated, unionized, government (better than many) bureaucracy. I began working full time on a mental health unit in Sept. 1985, and have been working in the public mental health sector ever since.

Yesterday, a colleague commented to me, 'Yours is a thankless job'. That does not ring familiar to me. Thankless? I am thanked everyday. The patients, along with their families (those who have any left) express more gratitude than I could ever deserve.

I have worked in this profession my entire adult career. I had not planned things this way. Do any of us?

Public mental health is where I belong, much to my chagrin. My career was a bit backwards- starting in management early, then moving back into clinical after 20 + years. I always seemed to find my way back to the patients. I have not enjoyed each of the organizations I have worked within. But the profession (mental health), the service sector (public), the practice (clinical), and the values and principles that define it- are what keep me here.

It is a (usually) privilege to work along side other individuals who believe in the absolute requirement of a just, compassionate, merciful, society; serving those in need, often marginalized and cast out. My father used to tell me to pick a job where I could respect the people with whom I work. In general, I have respected of the individuals I have worked with. But it is the clients that keep me inspired and coming back everyday. I think he'd approve...'can't beat that', he'd say.

I hope I have gained some wisdom and perspective. One thing I have learned is that I cannot survive in a vacuum. It is my hope to inspire, challenge and remind us all why we came to this noble and stimulating profession. And, perhaps find myself in it all, one more time.

Here are one or two things I know for sure...