Notes from the Intern: Lessons & The Like

Yes, I will admit it. It was a little dry at first. Ever seen that movie Enchanted? I sort of felt like Giselle, being plopped in a sea of unfamiliarity, and yet aside from being captivated by a whole new set of things to learn, was majorly distracted by the fact that I didn't even know where to start let alone had the resources. So, out of my element I was, not terribly sure how to navigate through something so foreign.

But that's the thing-- I'm a big girl, right?! I'm supposed to suck it up and find my way. So that's exactly what I did...and so the list of lessons begins.

1. Growing familiar with the culture of my program. I'm working in peer support; where most of my education so far has mostly touched clinical methods, peer support is more about relationships and opening up the conversation. And I like it. A lot.
2. Listening to stories...it's humbling. I've heard of lives pierced with loneliness and hopelessness, yet amidst it all, there is so much hope in the journey of recovery.
2a. Recovery is not about the destination, it's about the journey.
3. The faith and patience of a pal go a long way.
4. Art provides an escape.
5. The human heart longs for companionship, as we were designed not to be alone but to be relational beings.
6. A simple smile rings volumes.
7. Meet other people on their turf.
8. Find commonalities-- and if you can't, discover new things for yourself.
9. Don't measure your success. Just be faithful, devoted, and hang in there.
10. Be slow to listen, slow to speak, slow to assume.
11. Be patient.
12. You can never be too engrossed with a curiosity to learn.
13. Elevate the needs of others above your own.
14. Encourage others.

Truth be told, it's not easy when you're given a task you feel so inadequate to do. I'm the kind of girl who wants to do things well and does not want to give people anything less than what they deserve. Thankfully these past few days I've been showered in kindness and support from other employees and I have a better feel for what I'm doing! I'll keep posting those little lesson nuggets, and more updates as it all unfolds :)