----Evolving is never standing still!---
by Allen Cardoza
When you work with children and families in distress, it is easy to become hardened by the experience and have your compassion “shut down”. As I visit with individuals who are in “people support” or “care-giving” jobs, I frequently hear comments such as, “How do I make an meaningful impact on anyone when I only have a limited time to be with that person?” or “How can I help someone when I know virtually nothing about what is happening in his/her life?”
Over the year’s, I have become keenly aware that a few kind words, a supportive attitude, or a simple smile can create a positive memory and make an incredible difference when a person feels fear and distress. Anthony J. D’Angelo quotes: “Smile, it is the key that fits the lock of everybody’s heart.” How very true! As my life has evolved, my heart is expanding also.. when I use these very simple practices in my own daily interactions.
Our staff at West Shield are among the most highly trained professionals in the field of teen transport, but that is second on the list when evaluating their qualifications. The most important, top-of-the-list item has been their genuine compassion and ability to turn the most difficult situation around… without using force.
At West Shield, we are of one mind, and every teen we transport is treated with dignity, respect and a caring attitude. As a result, the kids feel safe and trust that we are there to help them through the process.
One of our staff stated recently, “It never ceases to amaze me how helpful and relaxed the kids become when you simply smile at them and show an interest the things they enjoy, whether it is art, animals, sports or whatever. Before I leave their home or the location we are transporting them from, it is my goal to make them break a smile. When that happens, I know they have one less fear or trauma to deal with.”
My personal belief is that the fear of others, the unknown, of failure, of not being loved …. is at the heart of most, if not all, emotional pain in all of our lives, regardless of age or experience.
If a simple smile can melt fear and lift a person’s spirits, why don’t we make it a point to do it more often with the people we encounter each day. My experience is that when I “gift a smile”, the majority people smile back and I too come away feeling enriched.
