"You don't have to think about doing the right thing. If you're for the right thing, then you do it without thinking."
~ Maya Angelou

March 7, 2014

Proud to Be One!

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

 
As we celebrate National Social Work Month, I thought it would be fitting to share some words...  There was a period in my life when my direction was far from having a career as a social worker.  In retrospect, it was so fitting that I had to be empowered along the way, moving towards self-determination in order to find my way, helping others change for the better!  I can say with my whole heart that I am proud to be a social worker, and I welcome every opportunity that presents itself to share, expose, and advocate for the profession that has given me so many wonderful lessons and experiences.

I can give you many examples of why social workers are
important, but what I would really like to share is how this profession not only helps those in need, but supports those who serve.  I have always maintained that there is no greater feeling than when you see "change for the better" happen right in front of you.  That moment when the person you are striving to support gets it, and thus the door towards opportunity has been opened.  To be part of this outcome is empowering, and the mutual process that transpires for both parties is truly rewarding to be of witness...  Yes, of course there are tremendous challenges, obstacles, and barriers involved with this work, as it is a profession that asks one to find balance between challenge and reward.  However, recognizing this balance in of itself is just another opportunity to utilize your skill sets, training, experience and that learned wisdom to help you grow and further develop. 

"It is one of the most beautiful compensations of this life that you cannot sincerely try to help another without helping yourself."             - Ralph Waldo Emerson

I love being a social worker, while having the opportunity to continue to evolve and work on my craft.  As I strive to improve both my personal and professional self (in order to better serve those in need) I am inspired.  Being in a position to facilitate "change for the better," an outcome that can transform for years, on to others, and within communities and organizations is quite powerful.  This profession is not for all as we know, but for those that it is, may these words find you available to listen to what I mean as I am proud to be one!  Until we meet again be well to yourself out there, because when you are, you will better serve the needs of others!



 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 ⇢

February 21, 2014

It's Possible!

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


It's Possible!  Ever heard that one before?  As I reflected on what to share for this post I was reminded of a recent passage from another opportunity to learn through the eyes of another...  The learning was not new information to me, but definitely information that we can easily lose sight of.  The idea of possible thinking when we are challenged, overwhelmed, anxious and the emotion that comes along for the ride.  Our culture, socialization, and the many examples that present themselves often promote that the way to get away from negative thinking is the opposite.  However, often the positive way can increase one's worry and levels of stress when we find the outcome we want no where to be found.  Therefore, instead of striving to be all or nothing, why not think in terms of It's Possible!

Sounds pretty simple when it's spelled out for us huh?  Well, that's the truth in what often one can create when they find themselves consumed in a manner that will not promote clarity or awareness.  I can truthfully share that I will continue to learn this lesson as I strive to be that work towards progress.  Often, the need to slow down, assess the situation, accept and then act in the most supportive and honest way we are able to get to the idea that It's Possible!

Recently, I've had to direct my focus and attention on a single project that is both important and challenging.  What comes with this effort is the kind of difficulty that sounds like "I need to get to this, but I just can't stop doing that..."  Sound familiar?  It's more than a need for time management here. It's about focus, negative thinking, worry and the impact we take on when the uncertain is just that.  So, I found myself having to take a two week refresher course in how to manage (and cope) with my needs in a way that was going to support my wellness.  I had to re-evaluate what was working versus what was not serving me well.  I needed to keep working, trust my process and ultimately see the possibility within the difficulty! 

I eventually found my way back and by preparing (doing the work) while striving to do my best, the rewards of opportunity have once again presented themselves.  The teaching will always be there.  However, the results will never come if you are not willing to put in the time (and effort) with trust as your guide.  Until the next time my words meet your availability, 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 as he continues to work towards progress!  More about the man behind the mission⇢

February 7, 2014

Hope...

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


Hope...  You may have heard it before as it is the message that we hold on to in times of need.  It is surrounded by feelings, expectation, and often that desired outcome we convince ourselves we must have.  As I recognize another opportunity to share, I am filled with inspiration as I choose to model it forward.  Hope...

As we move into February, we are moving...  Whether it is in the direction of choice, we always have a say in the matter.  Yes, at times difficulty will arrive as when we just can't shake that "something" that seems to have a hold on us.  It is exactly this example of challenge that has my thoughts processing today with Hope...  

As helping professionals we often have the insight and a level of awareness as it applies to behavior, psychosocial stressors, risk factors and all those intangible forces that impact and effect one's well-being.  We are not protected from feeling (and taking on) these certain factors just because we are the helpers.  Therefore, it will always be important to recognize that we can be as exposed and vulnerable to these forces just like those we strive to reach and support.  Hope...

Imagine one of those moments when you just can not seem to remove that worry of what is yet to happen.  Whether it's a client's current status that is weighing you down, a pending meeting that revolves around uncertainty, or a personal challenge that you just can't seem to breakthrough...  If you are not well, meaning YOU are in that place of heightened worry and stress and you are not taking action/practice to facilitate change for the better, you will most definitely be suffering.  Now imagine you are taking healthy/positive measures to manage and cope with these areas of challenge, and you are still not feeling right...  What are you going to do?  Would you stop taking care of your needs?  Are you going to turn to unhealthy and negative coping mechanisms?

Now that I have you in thought there is a message waiting for you... The process of being well will need you to be patient with some Hope by your side.  You see, just because your practicing self-care and doing the necessary work, you are by no means removed from feeling stressed, anxious, frustrated and the gamut of emotions that are available for us all.  What it does mean though is that with practice in place you will be able to manage, cope and recover in a much more healthy and supportive manner.  You've heard me say it before "trust the process, change takes time."  If you are a non-believer, please feel free to experiment with this model.  The next time you find yourself consumed (and in the place and space that does not have you well) don't take care of yourself, do the opposite as you numb and suppress... At this point ask yourself, how am I feeling right here right now?

May my words today find you with some perspective, and another opportunity to help you help yourself (or someone in your circle who is in need).  Remember, hope is friends with resilience, but neither of them show up without effort and trust.  I am confident that what I've shared today is "truth" and "valid" as I have lived the example, and it only took a breakdown to produce a breakthrough.  Hope...



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⇢

January 24, 2014

Support X 2

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


Nice to be back in a familiar place with another opportunity to engage in some Support x 2.  What does this mean, you may be thinking to yourself?  It is no more, and no less than the parallel process that happens as a result of the support I extend to all of those that can hear me.  My platform is not traveling down a one way street.  It is by far a two way interaction, as when I give I am receiving in the process.  However, this would not be possible if I was not a work towards progress, choosing to be open and available to opportunities that better the quality of my life.  By following this approach I am continually adding to my personal self and professional practice as I embrace the Support x 2!

As a result of this platform (and the process that is transpiring) I am humbled and grateful for the many opportunities that I have been given to meet some truly inspiring helping professionals along this journey.  One in particular, Relando Thompkins, MSW,LLMSW (Servant Leader, Teacher, Learner, Social Change Agent: Writer of Notes from an Aspiring Humanitarian (N.A.H.) has been a friend and supporter of CYHM? for sometime now.  Although we live on opposite sides of the country, and our platforms and target market are different, we are united as passionate helping professionals who strive to do the right thing without thinking!  Relando recently extended another Support x 2 opportunity my way, as he presented me with several questions related to the story behind this platform.  When you have an available moment, please do check out Relando's efforts as you will truly learn through his eyes!


Relando Thompkins, MSW, LLMSWI was recently given another opportunity to share some insights into how this blog/platform began, and what the lies beneath the lens of my passion and inspiration.  I humbled and grateful for t 
1. What inspired you to start blogging?

My inspiration to start blogging was really born out of my Breaking Open experience, and the recovery from it.  I had something to share as you could imagine what happens as a result of overcoming such an intense experience...  It truly opened up a door, and the efforts as a result have strengthened my resilience in a manner that allows me to embrace my own vulnerability, while sharing my story and support.  As I strive to inspire, empower and help my fellow professionals in need, I am being served as well!

2. Is there a special story or meaning behind your blog’s title?

Can You Hear Me? was chosen because I recognize that when others are available to listen and digest, they are more likely to receive what is being given.  Therefore, the title is about the person on the other end and their availability, choice, awareness, and the opportunity that is right here ready to help you help yourself.  The title does not mean "listen to me because of what I have to say" but rather, "listen to what I mean."  My passion, empathy and compassion to help those in need is just that, there are no other motives involved in this platform: Words with a voice, a story, and an opportunity to inspire others to change for the better!

3. Who/what inspires you?

I gravitate towards inspiration in thought, practice, and within the story that resides in all of us.  I am inspired and enlightened by the many learning experiences I have gained through the eyes of others, in the literal sense and through reading.  My sociology and social work roots/interests have provided me with so many resources, guides and valuable tools that will always serve me well as sources of inspiration.  I am also inspired by my own story, one that has shown me the true depth of resilience, overcoming and healing.  The reality of these outcomes ignite my inspiration and move me forward as I strive to inspire others!  

4. What do you hope to achieve with your blog?

My hope is to provide those in the field of helping professionals an opportunity to be supported, and heard.  My experiences (both personally and professionally) have afforded me some valuable insight and awareness that I am choosing to share with only one goal in mind, to help those in need help themselves.  My blog allows me to share in a manner that supports the unsupported, while creating a safe and trusted space. We are helpers that need to be helped from time to time, and that's OK because when you commit to (while trusting) the process, you will transform and the opportunities as a result of, by far change for the better.   

5. Do you have any advice for anyone who would want to start a blog of their own?


It's definitely a work in progress endeavor.  For myself (and like many others out there) I am self taught as it applies to format, social media, marketing, etc.  With that being said you don't have to have everything figured out when you start a blog.  You are not on your own as there are many sources of support available out there through the various modes of electronic sharing.  If the passion and desire are intact, and you have something of value to share, the rest will work itself out.  

I will say that we (those who blog) all have different goals and aspirations when it comes to sharing, and so the outcome you are looking for is an expectation that you get to create.  I share my experience, support and vulnerability, while providing resources and instruction.  Therefore, my model is much different than one who shares third party and/or other content, without any exposure to their own thoughts, emotion and struggle.  Allow your passion to shine while daring greatly, it can be a very rewarding process!

As always it has been my honor to be given this opportunity to share and support.  I hope that after reading this post you have been provided further learning about my community of support.  A platform that continues to grow and evolve, while being available to help you help yourself.  Until the next time may you be well to yourself as you deserve! 



10 Questions for Nominees to Answer, Should They Accept
1. What inspired you to start blogging?
2. Is there a special story or meaning behind your blog’s title? If so, please share it.
3. How would you explain your basic life philosophy?
4. Who/what inspires you?
5. Which of your blog posts is your favorite and why?
6.Other than your own, what are some of your favorite blogs?
7. Do you have any advice for anyone who would want to start a blog of their own?
8. Where do you get your inspiration for blogging?
9.  What do you hope to achieve with your blog?
10. Share the link to one of your blog posts that you think deserves more attention.
- See more at: http://www.relandothompkins.com/2014/01/07/notes-from-an-aspiring-humanitarian-recieves-the-liebster-award/#sthash.1iJWnUyN.dpuf
10 Questions for Nominees to Answer, Should They Accept
1. What inspired you to start blogging?
2. Is there a special story or meaning behind your blog’s title? If so, please share it.
3. How would you explain your basic life philosophy?
4. Who/what inspires you?
5. Which of your blog posts is your favorite and why?
6.Other than your own, what are some of your favorite blogs?
7. Do you have any advice for anyone who would want to start a blog of their own?
8. Where do you get your inspiration for blogging?
9.  What do you hope to achieve with your blog?
10. Share the link to one of your blog posts that you think deserves more attention.
- See more at: http://www.relandothompkins.com/2014/01/07/notes-from-an-aspiring-humanitarian-recieves-the-liebster-award/#sthash.1iJWnUyN.dp
10 Questions for Nominees to Answer, Should They Accept
1. What inspired you to start blogging?
2. Is there a special story or meaning behind your blog’s title? If so, please share it.
3. How would you explain your basic life philosophy?
4. Who/what inspires you?
5. Which of your blog posts is your favorite and why?
6.Other than your own, what are some of your favorite blogs?
7. Do you have any advice for anyone who would want to start a blog of their own?
8. Where do you get your inspiration for blogging?
9.  What do you hope to achieve with your blog?
10. Share the link to one of your blog posts that you think deserves more attention.
- See more at: http://www.relandothompkins.com/2014/01/07/notes-from-an-aspiring-humanitarian-recieves-the-liebster-award/#sthash.1iJWnUyN.dpuf
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⇢

January 10, 2014

Who Do YOU Want To Be?

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


Who Do YOU Want To Be?  Here we are 2014!  First, let me wish all of those that can hear me a very Happy New Year!  I know for some, the transition back from having time off may have been a little rough.  I get that as I found myself ill just when I found the time to breathe...  However, as I/We approach the end of the week we are reminded once again of the power of our resilient being, as it moves us forward.  My writing this week is inspired by my own process, and the actions we all have the opportunity to enact.  I would imagine that this first week back into your reality may have provided some moments where you felt as though "I just can't or I don't want to..."  So I ask, Who Do YOU Want To Be?

It's a pretty straight forward question, one that can be addressed as long as you are a willing participant?  For example, at the beginning of the week I found myself unmotivated, disengaged and in a place and space that was not going to support any type of availability for others.  Who I was and who I wanted to be were truly far apart.  I found myself being tough on the one person who held the power to change his state, with a little acceptance in order I asked the question, Who Do YOU Want To Be?  I knew the answer, and so I began the process with action, choice and my resilient being by my side...

I went to that place that has supported me well during these challenging moments (when you are struggling to find the door).  You see, it's okay to feel this way, the importance lies within what you do with these feelings.  If you choose to reinforce negative behavior and actions (i.e. unhealthy coping mechanisms) then your outcome will be nothing more of the same, and it will likely have you moving further away from where you really need (and deserve) to be heading.  I have worked extremely hard to implement practices that support my self-care and well-being, so there was no question in my mind that I was going to get there.  I had to work through it though, and because I recognize the learning and growth within this space I knew I was going to be alright!

As I bring my thoughts to a close, my hope is that I have left you with some further support that ultimately allows you opportunity.  No matter where you find yourself at in the world you are living in, YOU have a choice.  One that can be continually addressed, while accepting of the lessons that will always be available for you.  We can not help others change for the better if WE are unable to help ourselves.  Being on auto-pilot in practice is as transparent as it gets and so I ask,
Who Do YOU Want To Be?

Until the next time my words meet your availability, may the weekend 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⇢

December 27, 2013

Can You Hear Me?

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


A Social Worker for the Helping Professionals!
Can You Hear Me?  As I reflect on this past year, like many I am reminded of some challenges, as well as some opportunities.  I am able to see that I have learned and grown with both, and for that I am thankful that I was available to receive.  Isn't that what a large part of our days should include; the ability and opportunity to learn as we go, so that we can move one step closer towards adding to that work towards progress?  We can always over think the process and really get ourselves into a state, but even that may be necessary so that we can once again realize that often we hold the answers to our most challenged questions...  Can You Hear Me?

When I started this community of support I was empowered to do so as a result of overcoming a very intense physical and emotional break.  It was just the beginning, and as the days, weeks, months (and now years) have followed I am witness to a healthier self, and a much more evolved practice.  I reflect on this often, recognizing that choice, change, and unlimited opportunity are as available as I am!  I use this message frequently, not to fill space, but to plant that seed while sending it to those in need.  I imagine that for some, this time of year is nothing more than shutting down, numbing the pain, just trying to survive.  I get that... I've lived that...  Can You Hear Me?

If you're new to my story, may you know that what I choose to share comes with compassion, empathy, and the kind of support that can only be inspired by passion.   What I can do for you is nothing more than a opportunity to help you help yourself.  What you can choose to do for yourself has the potential to be life changing...  I have learned many valuable (and needed) lessons over time, ones that I honestly thought I had down.  It turns out that I had to take some classes over because I lost sight of some things.  To know others is smart.  To know yourself is wise.  The classroom is always open, whether or not you will be a student is yours to decide, Can You Hear Me?

I wish all of those that can hear me a healthy and joyful new year to come.  May this new beginning allow you to learn from today so that you can live in tomorrow.  May you be kind to yourself and others, embracing the idea that we are more similar than different.  No matter how many reasons you come up with that tell you not to, you only need one to begin.  As I end this process may you find yours, while embracing the vulnerability that you will need to confront in order to achieve that change you truly deserve.  I am the outcome that is possible, and if my words have not reached you...  They will always be where you can find them, when you are available to receive...  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 as he continues to work towards progress!  More about the man behind the mission⇢

December 19, 2013

As They Inspire...

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


As They Inspire...  So nice to be back in a familiar and supported space as I am available to share.  The month of December has moved quickly as I have been immersed into completing another year of supporting and instructing MSW students.  It is a  endeavor that truly has been rewarding to my personal self as well as my professional practice.  The students that I have been fortunate enough to cross paths with have provided me with a wonderful opportunity to learn, grow and further develop As They Inspire...
 
In the field of helping others help themselves we are given ample opportunities to learn through the eyes of those we serve.  Now imagine having the opportunity to continue supporting this process, while being able to contribute to the development and growth (of those who are learning how to facilitate their own process)...  I am in a position to guide, support, and effectively represent my role as a teacher, mentor, role model and gatekeeper in the field and profession of Social Work!  As a result of this I am handed continual openings to share my passion, compassion and wisdom As They Inspire...

It is fair to say that some out there may buy into that unfortunate ignorance as they speak without awareness, "those who teach can't do..." I would share this, those that can do (the one's who choose to continue to develop, evolve and grow as social workers) have a very powerful opportunity to support and instruct in a manner that equates to promoting competent and effective social workers, serving communities and supporting clients the right way!  This outcome can be transformative, and it is exactly what motivates my efforts as I strive to facilitate, and As They Inspire...

As I begin the process of slowing down and closing this chapter, I am once again empowered by the opportunity that has showed its way.  To all of my students who have chosen a field that has so much to offer, thank you for giving to me as much as I hopefully have provided for you.  May you know "When one teaches, two learn."  I have learned, yes I have as I fully embrace my work towards progress.  The lessons are as available as you want them to be, and with a growth mindset by your side you will receive!  May these thoughts find you well with your own opportunity, one that provides you with purpose, intention and value.  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 as he continues to work towards progress!  More about the man behind the mission⇢

December 11, 2013

Coming Soon...

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


  
As I find myself immersed into a busy time of the year, the opportunity to share seems to be on pause.  The good news here is that I am aware of the need to write, and I will make a determined effort to do so in the nearest future.  Until then, may this find all of those that can hear me 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⇢

November 22, 2013

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⇢

November 14, 2013

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⇢