“Thankless” is a new page in my daily art journal.
For the last 14 years, I’ve been employed in a human services profession within the public sector. It’s highly challenging work. As much as one desires to make a difference and help others, there are many days that it feels as though there are too many insurmountable obstacles standing in the way.
The public you are trying to assist doesn’t support or appreciate your efforts. The government doesn’t provide the funding that is truly needed in order for programs to be effective. Policy makers don’t understand the practical issues you confront on a daily basis. People on the outside don’t recognize the value of what you do, or what society would be like if you weren’t there to do it.
In the private sector, professionals can expect to be rewarded in tangible ways for a job well-done. There are awards, raises, and promotions. Frankly, it’s very hard, if not impossible, to receive any of these things in my profession, especially now. We’re much more likely to receive complaints and reprimands from those who don’t think we’re doing enough–or to have our insurance and retirement benefits seized from us.
At this juncture, it’s hard to be optimistic about the future. Fewer young people are choosing to enter public service professions, and it’s not hard to see why. All we can hope is that people begin to realize the truth.
Thanks for checking in! Wishing you a positive, productive week!
Starting Over Studio 
Nicely said, Jen!
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Thanks Miss! I’m so glad that you stopped by! đŸ™‚
After a challenging week of standardized testing, I just felt compelled to get it off my chest. I’m sure you can relate! đŸ˜‰
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Love all the colors and texture. The photo is perfect
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I also wanted to comment on the issues you discussed. I haven’t worked for public sector. In private sector it all depends on boss and company politics. I have had some great bosses,real leaders but mostly poor to mediocre. So opportunity is iffy sometimes. I wish it were better across the board. People need appreciation for their work. That is the only way for productivity and passion which improves the bottom line. Unfortunately it is all about cost cutting these days.
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You are so right! Wherever they happen to be, employees need to feel valued. If you don’t sense that from the people around you, motivation is going to suffer. I know that’s something I’ve struggled with over the years.
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Thanks so much! I found it in a package of of random vintage snapshots I’d purchased online from a seller on Etsy, and was saving it for the perfect page. đŸ˜‰
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