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Joy to the World…Peace on Earth…God rest ye merry, gentlemen…on this silent night!
This time of year, we’re surrounded by well-wishes for peace, joy, happiness, and a bright beginning to the New Year. Many people are able to identify and enjoy these blessings in their lives currently, and others are holding onto hope that they are just around the corner. Yet the reality is that for many, these seem like empty words as they struggle through the chaos of daily life. Chaos comes in many forms. Many of you are experiencing difficult or strained relationships, loneliness, unstable housing, joblessness, poor health, difficulties with children who exhibit combative or self-destructive behaviors, the effects of aging, political unrest, the loss of loved ones, or financial distress. It can be difficult to experience peace, happiness, or hope in the face of overwhelming uncertainty, loss, fear, and frustration. This week my family and I are celebrating the fact that joy and hope are not connected to the circumstances of our daily lives. Instead, they are gifts bestowed on the first Christmas long ago, when God himself stepped into the chaos of our human lives. Each day, I am learning more about trusting His love, faithfulness, and provision of our “daily bread,” or all that we need to face the chaos of our human needs. With this final “Social Incites” of 2014, I am wishing all of you the knowledge and assurance of the love, peace, joy, and hope that are freely gifted to each of us as we celebrate the birthday of the Prince of Peace. May He calm your chaos and give you hope for tomorrow, and for all the tomorrows after that, as we transition from 2014 to 2015!
2 Comments
Dianne Zwicker
12/27/2014 05:01:29 am
My son graduated from college in 2012 with a BA in Economics and a double minor in accounting and math. In Dec 2013 he received an MA in Economics from Clemson and in May of 2014 he finished additional math courses at Clemson to have an equivalent of an undergraduate major in math. Since June he has been looking for an entry level job as an economist, mostly with states and federal government. He has had over a dozen phone interviews. One private company phone interviewed him 3 times and flew him to VA for a round of interviews. He has had no job offers yet. In January he will start teaching economics part-time at the local community college while he continues to apply for jobs. His undergrad college (Hope) has helped him with interview techniques, networking, and improving his linkedin. Yes, he is an Aspie. He has become more social since high school, but he is still introspective and struggles with informal and social situations. Do you know of any group or center that helps Aspergers young adults who are looking for a professional job?
Laurel Falvo
12/29/2014 10:37:30 am
Hi, Dianne, Thanks for writing! Your story is fairly common. We frequently meet young people who are very bright and have done very well academically, but struggle to secure employment in their chosen field. My husband and I do job development for individuals with autism (and anyone who desires assistance). One great resource is Michigan Rehabilitation Services (MRS)--they can help with testing, job development, etc. I know of another local professional who helps with career placement--Lydia Frens. Feel free to contact us for more information on any of these! Your comment will be posted after it is approved.
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Social IncitesSocial Incites™ are insights which incite (encourage) personal and interpersonal growth. Social Incites™ are written by Laurel Hoekman, Certified Family Life Educator, Certified Employment Training Specialist, Social Coach, Consultant, and Registered Social Service Technician (Michigan). For 15 years, Laurel was the Executive Director of The Gray Center for Social Learning and Understanding, and has also been a CASA volunteer (Court Appointed Special Advocate for children who are abused and neglected). She is passionate about helping individuals and families (including those affected by autism spectrum disorders) identify and achieve their goals, particularly in building and maintaining effective social connections. Archives
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