Thank You More Please!

by Daniel Jacob, MSW: Founder of Can You Hear Me?

Thank You More Please!  I learned this phrase sometime ago, passed on by one of my most loyal supporters.  It's interpretation is rooted in the awareness that needs to be present when we are once again reminded that there is always something to be thankful for.   As we approach this time of the year with an opportunity to slow down, I thought it was fitting to share my thoughts with all of those that can hear me...  Thank You More Please!

I am reminded at this time of year that is very easy to get caught up with the idea of running towards time off.  You know how it goes "I can't wait till...  No work, time to..."  Yes, having the opportunity to break away from the rigors and responsibilities that we must oblige to is welcomed.  However, my thoughts move me towards that space and place that allows us to slow down this process, while moving into an awareness that clearly helps us help ourselves.   

As I reflect on what I have in my life... I can see it, feel it, and truly recognize that my life is so much better because I have made a choice, one that does not always come with comfort. What I have been able to gain is wellness and perspective.  What I now know is that when you commit and persist while trusting the process you eventually get there.  It is here where change becomes transformative, and where life just opens up the door to endless possibility and opportunity...
Thank You More Please!  

So, as you move towards this day of thanks, may you find your own opening as your hand reaches for the door.  What lies on the other side will be entirely dependent on how you interpret your choice+change+opportunity+commitment.  What I will continue to share through my experiential lens is the life that you strive to have is not possible if you refuse to confront what you need to, it can't and won't happen.  Furthermore, when you get to that place that needs no explanation, the outcome far exceeds what your original expectation once presented.  Thank You More Please! 

May this time of year with family, friends or just the company of yourself find you breathing well.  As you are reminded that there is always, always, always something to be thankful for!

  About Author

Daniel Jacob, MSW Email
Founder of Can You Hear Me? External Field Instructor at University of Southern California School of Social Work MSW@USC.  Daniel has a Masters in Social Work (Families and Children Practice/School Social Work).  He is currently nearing the completion of the LCSW testing process as he continues to work towards progress!  More about the man behind the mission⇢

Vicariously Speaking...

by Daniel Jacob, MSW: Founder of Can You Hear Me?

Joshua Tree National Park 

 

Nice to be back with intention and purpose as my emotion to share is Vicariously Speaking...  I was able to get away for a few this past weekend as another opportunity to disconnect and breathe as I should.  It served me well as I found my pace slow down, allowing for that clarity and awareness that only comes with being in the "now" while being far removed from consumption and distraction.  It was self-care in its fullest effect and I was embracing it as I found my process to be immersed into available reflection, Vicariously Speaking...

  

My writing over the course of time has allowed me to model my process as it pertains to the work I have put forward to overcome, learn, grow and strive towards progress.  This has been a powerful opportunity as it has afforded a mutual process; support for myself and those who can hear me.  It's more than sharing what I've done or where I've been.  No, it's about choice, change, effort, and the learning that only comes with challenge and resilience.  It's about a social worker who has been exposed to suffering and pain (personally and professionally) who endured and prevailed, while continuing to learn and grow within his process.  

 

My writing, and the lens that has developed through this journey has afforded me with an opportunity to support and instruct.  The Can You Hear Me? model has its goal: To provide "YOU" with a vicarious experience that will empower and support, while helping you help yourself in the process!  So, when I was able to get away this past weekend I was once again given an opening to add to my work towards progress, while supporting my resilient being.  I was able to hold on to all that I have been challenged with, learned from, and now I find myself in a space and place that has me wholeheartedly walking with my head up and heart open.  I am well because of effort, choice and the change that comes with want, belief, and a level of commitment that resembles the opposite of a chore, Vicariously Speaking...

 

If you were able to observe from afar you might see one who is fully immersed into his process.  My fingers hit the keys as my heart and mind support another, and my emotion is in touch with the influence that I know can lift and inspire.  As I write I imagine for opportunity to reach and teach, while allowing for a moment where I might be that catalyst to help another pause, step back, and make a choice to better their circumstance.  I'm fully aware that it may require risk and uncertainty, but without that move, you will never experience the possibility of a better opportunity.  One that I know can move you closer towards the quality of life that you want...

 

So, as I close down my thoughts for the week, I project on to you my experience, one that has allowed me to embrace my own vulnerability in manner that has given me the flexibility and availability to live it and love it (life that is).  It is so much better and it's as possible for you as it was for myself.  Trust it, be a part of it and you will see, Vicariously Speaking...  Until the next time my words connect with your availability, may this find you breathing well!

 About Author

Daniel Jacob, MSW Email
Founder of Can You Hear Me? External Field Instructor at University of Southern California School of Social Work MSW@USC.  Daniel has a Masters in Social Work (Families and Children Practice/School Social Work).  He is currently nearing the completion of the LCSW testing process as he continues to work towards progress!  More about the man behind the mission⇢

The Flame Within Us...

by Daniel Jacob, MSW: Founder of Can You Hear Me?

The Flame Within Us...  Our flame may extinguish from time to time, but there will always be an opportunity to reignite it with some gratitude by our side.  I pass this lesson on to you as another opportunity to help you help yourself.  May this find you well out there, keep doing that self work that will always support you as you strive to support those in need!

About Author

Daniel Jacob, MSW Email
Founder of Can You Hear Me? External Field Instructor at University of Southern California School of Social Work MSW@USC. Daniel has a Masters in Social Work (Families and Children Practice/School Social Work). He is currently nearing the completion of the LCSW testing process. More about the man behind the mission⇢

Empathy Is...

by Daniel Jacob, MSW: Founder of Can You Hear Me?

Empathy Is...  The lessons we are provided can either reach us or leave us.  It would be fair to say that one's availability will determine such, and this is where my writing takes me...  It is always empowering to write about something that I feel so well, a part of me, my practice and how I see it unfold right before my eyes.  Like many, I was formally introduced to the concept of empathy in the early stages of my social work education and training.  It didn't take me long to realize though that I knew this concept way before this time in my life, I just didn't know it had a name.  Empathy Is...

I would say that my ability to see, listen, and feel through the eyes of another was born out of my own struggle and the tremendous learning (and awareness) that it has provided me over the years.  Empathy is something that I continue to cultivate and as an instructor I am fortunate to have ample opportunity to support and guide students within their own empathic development.  It is a process, one that I believe evolves as you do, grows as you choose to, and is available as long as you are.  Empathy Is...

There are so many wonderful opportunities to work on and learn from empathy.  Whether it is by choice or awareness, the lessons are always available as long as you are.  If you find yourself consumed with distraction or worry, you wouldn't be able to see it, let alone feel it.  Furthermore, if you think that your level of empathy is brought to you as a result of writing a paper or reading an article, you may be a little off.  Yes, there is ample learning to support your development and growth here, but the true depth of your ability to empathize lies within you.  As I mentioned previously (perhaps it didn't register with you at the time) we all have the ability and opportunity to cultivate it as we add to our personal self and professional practice.  Empathy Is...

My writing today was inspired by choice and chance, having another opportunity to empower and support is the outcome I strive towards.  The words may not find you immediately, but hopefully they will as you find yourself supporting another who is need.  Particularly when you are in that space and place that has you stuck in your head, challenged by what you can't control, rooted in the energy that will only project the opposite of who you want to be.  Empathy Is...

As I come to a close here I am leaving you with a great opportunity (and example) of the learning we can gain through the eyes of another, you get to decide how it finds you, Empathy Is...  It is always a pleasure connecting with those that can hear me, may this find you breathing well out there with your head up and heart open!




 About Author

Daniel Jacob, MSW Email
Founder of Can You Hear Me? External Field Instructor at University of Southern California School of Social Work MSW@USC. Daniel has a Masters in Social Work (Families and Children Practice/School Social Work). He is currently nearing the completion of the LCSW testing process. More about the man behind the mission⇢

Learning Through Your Eyes Series...

As I have featured many times in this forum, learning through the eyes of another is such a great vehicle to empower and support.  It teaches us in a manner that allows us to inspire and reach, educate and teach, and tap into that space and place that has intention, purpose, and action.

I am pleased and excited to offer this great opportunity to any and all that can hear me.  It's time we hear your story, the one that led you into the field of helping others change for the better.  Can You Hear Me? wants to provide a forum for you to share your passion, as you reflect and remember how you got started, the influences, challenges and obstacles that have shaped your lens.  Everyone has crossed paths with those that have inspired, mentored, and supported you along the way.  The goal here with this opportunity is for you to be able to share a part of yourself that most don't see or understand.  The story that has greatly impacted your practice, the one that comes from that place within and is carried out as you strive to provide to those in need.  If this sounds like an opportunity that you have been waiting for, or one that has peaked your interest, I would be honored to help you help yourself!

So, now the specifics...  There will be two ways to share, through the written word or by video, the choice will be yours.  If you choose to share your story by writing it out I ask you to keep it between 500-600 words.  You can include your name and any website or link that showcases your efforts as you strive to help others in need. Or you can be anonymous.  I want to support you in this opportunity, while allowing you to work within your own level of comfort.  So, if you want to include a picture, please do so, if you don't that's okay.  The second option to share is by video, I ask that you to keep your visual piece to a maximum of 7 minutes.  I will post your story on this blog, while promoting it on all of the Can You Hear Me? social media platforms.  Your story will allow the reader or viewer the opportunity to learn through your eyes, a process that can empower, support, inspire and transform!

Please send your stories (written or video) to: info@canyouhearme.org and I will post according to your request to be named or not.  This series will be continually updated and adjusted accordingly as it grows and develops.

Any questions or need for further clarification please feel free to reach out by using the comment section below, included email, or contact me directly on the Can You Hear Me? website →

May this find you well!      

Respectfully,
Daniel Jacob (Founder of Can You Hear Me?)


 About Author
 

Daniel Jacob, MSW  Email

Founder of Can You Hear Me? External Field Instructor at University of Southern  California School of Social Work MSW@USC. Daniel has a Masters in Social Work (Families and Children Practice/School Social Work). He is currently nearing the completion of the LCSW testing process. 

More about the man behind the mission ⇢

I'm Walking Through...

by Daniel Jacob, MSW: Founder of Can You Hear Me?

I'm Walking Through...  As I reflect into my words I am immersed into the history that has shaped me, while looking through that hopeful lens.  This week I am touched by the possibility of an opportunity that I surely never thought would become a potential reality .  You see, the expectation changes as you do, and the learning as a result can be empowering.  As I write I am holding on to just that as I'm Walking Through... 

Like many of you who can hear me I have those selected few in my corner who advise me as needed.  You know the one's I'm talking about as they mentor, guide, support and show the learning that you cannot always see on your own.  One trusted individual in particular shared with me (sometime ago) a valuable lesson that applies well to where I am at today.  As my fingers tap out my emotion I am inspired, and so I choose to pass it on and along.  It goes like this: our expectation is just that and when the outcome presents, it often far exceeds what we may have originally imagined.  The most recent chapter in my journey (the one that not everyone will understand) has truly supported this lesson, I can see it so clearly as I'm Walking Through...

As I contemplate my future and what awaits, my words (and the intention within) once again serve as an opportunity to connect my voice and story with your possibility.  No matter where you find yourself on the road we call life, may you see the hope that is hand in hand with your expectation.  Continue to trust the process that you must be a part of, because without such you do not move forward.  Wherever you end up may you recognize what you have gained, as you embrace and accept that it was always meant to be.

Until the next time my words meet your availability may you walk with you head up and heart open, as you continue to be well to yourself and those in need.  I'm Walking Through... 

     

About Author

Daniel Jacob, MSW Email
Founder of Can You Hear Me? External Field Instructor at University of Southern California School of Social Work MSW@USC. Daniel has a Masters in Social Work (Families and Children Practice/School Social Work). He is currently nearing the completion of the LCSW testing process. More about the man behind the mission⇢

Wisdom...

by Daniel Jacob, MSW: Founder of Can You Hear Me?

Wisdom...  My writing this week is inspired by the words to the left, and my thoughts as a result have allowed for further process.  *Contrary to popular beliefs, wisdom is not the gift of "knowing everything," but rather possessing an open mind to further increase knowledge.  A wise person always thinks before they speak, talk about subjects they know about, and ask questions about the ones he/she are not familiar with.  People who possess wisdom tend to be humble and do not show off, Wisdom...

It is fair to say that I have been provided some life experiences that have allowed for necessary insight and reflection.  In addition, my academic training and work experiences have only enhanced my understanding and awareness, Wisdom...  However, what resonates with me today is that connection between listening and speaking, and how my roots have shaped and influenced my wise ways. Growing up the youngest in a house with strong presence, separation, challenge, distance and many other factors impacted my inability to have a voice...  These early influences shaped my identity, but they also opened up a door towards opportunity.  As I moved through this space and place I was able to further develop by observing, listening and learning from my surroundings.  This foundation in of itself shaped my development and my ability to see what most pass by, Wisdom...

Although there have been many times in my life when I would of rather spoken, I have been afforded a true gift because I did not.  One that has allowed me to see through the eyes of others, and give in a manner that can truly change the quality of life.  What once began by challenge has moved me through that thing we call growth...  It ultimately turned into an ability to effectively help (and support) and I have been rewarded, Wisdom...

As I leave you with your own thoughts, may you move towards a level of understanding that once again will allow you to see what you have, and not what you just do not need.  Listening when you would have preferred to talk, Wisdom... 

* "Characteristics of Wisdom." Reference.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 11 Oct. 2013.  

 

 About Author

Daniel Jacob, MSWEmail
Founder of Can You Hear Me? External Field Instructor at University of Southern California School of Social Work MSW@USC. Daniel has a Masters in Social Work (Families and Children Practice/School Social Work). He is currently nearing the completion of the LCSW testing process. More about the man behind the mission⇢

It's A Process...

by Daniel Jacob, MSW: Founder of Can You Hear Me?

It's A Process... Indeed it is as this is where I am at.  Like many of those that can hear me, I can find myself immersed into my own thoughts and reflection as it applies to my future.  I took note recently as I found myself thinking about this more than perhaps was needed.  As a result I found my sleep being impacted with the problem solving in full effect.  I can honestly say that it has been quite some time since I've visited this place and space.  However, as I have come to understand, I am accepting of where I am at, while continuing to be a part of it, after all It's A Process...

I write this week from a place of intention and purpose.  My intention speaks to any and all who may be facing similar times.  My purpose is to model in a manner that showcases my ability to cope, manage and recover from the thoughts that come, and usually on their own schedule.  The future is not really the issue here, this will come as it should.  The root lies in what I just can not control, and thus it takes a level of awareness to understand this, accept it, and let it go.  How am I able to do this?  I trust the process, one that I am a wholeheartedly a part of.  For example, if my sleep is impacted, I have to own it while continuing to do my work.  The effort therefore lies in my continual trust that I am doing the right thing, without thinking.  This is the course that fully supports my wellbeing, as demonstrated by the healthy coping mechanisms and selfcare practices that are in place.  It's A Process...

Now you may be thinking no more or less about what I shared, as if there is no mystery here.  Well, If I can further share that in the past my self-medication and unhealthy coping would of been the only choice, then perhaps I now have your attention.  Having this experiential understanding of an unhealthy way versus a process serves its purpose, one that has led me towards transformative change...  I am exactly where I need to be.  I share this with all those that can hear me because I know some out there are caught in between that vulnerable world of being functional and unhealthy.  I get it, as I have been there with you, superman by my side.  I was immersed into that mode of survival that ultimately met a force that it could not withstand...

If it doesn't challenge you, it won't change you.  Words to live by that have fundamentally supported my process.  The one that I trust because I am a part of.  So, when the thoughts come and the sleep suffers as a result, I know I am going to be OK.  I will because I have developed and maintained the skills, support, want, belief and commitment that will always help me find my way.  As I leave you with this message, may you move closer towards finding your own way, and may you never, never lose sight of the reality that It's A Process, Change Takes Time!




About Author

Daniel Jacob, MSW Email
Founder of Can You Hear Me? External Field Instructor at University of Southern California School of Social Work MSW@USC. Daniel has a Masters in Social Work (Families and Children Practice/School Social Work). He is currently nearing the completion of the LCSW testing process. More about the man behind the mission⇢

Running With The Homeboys!

by Daniel Jacob, MSW: Founder of Can You Hear Me?

Homeboy 5K 2013

Running With The Homeboys! Today was a good day as I embraced an opportunity, a cause, and the well-being that I have wholeheartedly committed to!  Today I was a part of a community that provides hope, training, and support to formerly gang-involved and previously incarcerated men and women, allowing them to redirect their lives and become contributing members of our community. 

Today I was Running With The Homeboys!  As I reflect into my writing I am taken to a place that shows me the parallel.  You see, the life that is presented to each one of us comes with its own unique plan.  The journey that not everyone will understand is both different and similar for us all.  The opportunity (and choice) to learn from the obstacles that come, will always allow for that chance to overcome so we can walk with our head up and heart open.  Running With The Homeboys was more than just supporting the cause, one that I truly hold close to my heart, interest and practice. No, today I was reminded once again how far one can come, and how you do not arrive here with out the work and community of support. The parallel is just that, none of us can ever change for the better with out the effort, commitment, and the support system that helps us get there... 

Today I was reminded of just that process, while looking through my lens of hope, choice and opportunity. As Father Greg (the founder and foundation of Homeboy Industries) says so well, "our support and services are not for those that need them, but for those that want them." This is it... My example, the homeboys example, and what can be your example is based on that "want." If you choose for that change, while being self determined then you will be moving in the right direction... It doesn't mean you won't face the challenges or stressors that are part of the journey, you will. What it means is that you will have some needed skills, and a toolbox ready to access with the support intact.  Running With The Homeboys is just that, an example that parallels the essence of how one changes for the better. 

As I leave you with some thought, and the process that moves you towards your own opportunity, my hope is that you have received the message. The one that is sent to you vicariously through my own experience, in addition to the passion I have serving and supporting those in need. Today was a good day, I was Running With The Homeboys!


About Author

Daniel Jacob, MSW Email
Founder of Can You Hear Me? External Field Instructor at University of Southern California School of Social Work MSW@USC. Daniel has a Masters in Social Work (Families and Children Practice/School Social Work). He is currently nearing the completion of the LCSW testing process. More about the man behind the mission⇢

I Had A Moment...

by Daniel Jacob, MSW: Founder of Can You Hear Me?

How are we doing this week?  My hope is that you've found yourself learning from yesterday so that you can live well today.  As I write today's post my inspiration is within me and thus I am ready to share to all of those that can hear me!  This morning I had a moment that allowed me to time travel back to a familiar place that I use to visit when I was a child.  It happened as I was immersed into one of my usual morning selfcare practices, and before I knew it I was passing by a childhood memory that brought me back.  I had a moment, one that provided me with an opportunity to reflect, and by doing so I once again was able to breathe a little easier...

Nearly four decades later this physical space that I was looking upon was still intact.  It looked the same as I had remembered, though much has transpired for myself since those early years as a kid.  As a young boy when I was told we were going there I often found my emotions mixed with excitement and fear.  I was excited to have the opportunity to go, but somewhat anxious for what I knew I could not control.  However, we always went back, and sure enough after I was finished with this experience everything was OK.
Life has been much of the same, walking through it with moments of excitement and fear.  I've always found myself coming back, and the process has taught me much...  I had a moment and once again I am empowered by the lessons I've learned, the one's that continue to find me years later.  No matter what challenges have been presented, or the pain that has found its way as a result, the healing has provided opportunity.  Where I am today has only allowed me to embrace these moments as I continue to add to my work towards progress.  This is it, the classroom is right there ready to be entered, as long as you are available to see it.

May you embrace your own moments as they are part of the process.  They will always be necessary in order to move forward and towards that space that has opportunity waiting for you.  Own it, learn from it, and may you find yourself being able to accept it!  They are brought to you by reason because you are that resilient being, and these moments are just another opening to show you the way.  Until we connect again as always may this find you breathing well...



 
About Author
   
Daniel Jacob, MSW Email
Founder of Can You Hear Me? External Field Instructor at University of Southern California School of Social Work MSW@USC. Daniel has a Masters in Social Work (Families and Children Practice/School Social Work). He is currently nearing the completion of the LCSW testing process. More about the man behind the mission ⇢  

Where Are We Going?

by Daniel Jacob, MSW: Founder of Can You Hear Me?

Where Are We Going?  As I reach and teach I am always presented with an opportunity to empower and support.  One might ask, how do you know you are making this kind of impact?  My response would go like this, when the eyes of those I am trying to teach reach mine, their focus shares all I need to know...  My writing this week is inspired by the work I am doing with MSW students and the mutual process that unfolds.  As my students find themselves transitioning into a new semester, there is another opportunity to add to their own works toward progress, and the learning is in place. 

Where Are We Going?  It is as much about the uncertain as it applies to what one has been able to add to their toolbox.  You see, often when we are immersed into our goals and tasks at hand, we can lose sight of the awareness needed to recognize what opportunities we have gained.  Today was about identifying competency as much as it was about striving towards progress that is yet to be achieved.  I challenge my student's to pause along the way, not losing sight of all the learning that surrounds them as they often just want to check off the next item on the list.  I want them to be mindful and in tune with the practice opportunities that will never be on the syllabi, but can impact their development in a manner that will effectively add to their skill set and ability to reach those in need.

Where Are We  Going?  It is a process, and if you trust it, you will be presented with openings that you never imagined would be possible...  It is in this space and place that one is empowered and motivated to embrace challenge and difficulty, not as a chore, but rather as a choice.  Can You Hear Me?  If you can then perhaps you are following my lead here.  It's a straight path towards insight, observation and the objectivity that a helping professional would need, not only to help those in need, but to support themselves in the process.  Today was a good day...  It signified to me that those I was striving to reach were available and present, and when this is in place, then there is no question as to Where Are We Going?

Once again, when one teaches two learn!  I am continually inspired by the opportunity that I have been given, one that I do not take for granted.  You see, I am in a position to not only impact the future of social work as it applies to the students I support, but what they take into the field as a result has the opportunity to transcend...  This is where I am going, and I hold no reservations as to what is possible, an opportunity for a level of change that can impact all parties involved.  As I reflect on just that I am empowered, and provided with another moment to breathe a little easier with my head up and heart open...

"It's not what you look at that matters, 

it's what you see." 

~Henry David Thoreau

About Author
   
Daniel Jacob, MSW Email
Founder of Can You Hear Me? External Field Instructor at University of Southern California School of Social Work MSW@USC. Daniel has a Masters in Social Work (Families and Children Practice/School Social Work). He is currently nearing the completion of the LCSW testing process. More about the man behind the mission ⇢