Blog Post 12

Blog written in response to the following article: 

http://www.nytimes.com/2013/12/08/magazine/a-lost-boy-grows-up.html?pagewanted=3&_r=0&hp

This riveting article tells the story of Jacob, a lost boy of the Sudan who sought asylum in the US and applied to the Atlanta police force. The story opens with him drought with anxiety over his target shooting exam, and recounts the other obstacles he has overcome in his incredible life. 

Recently in our foundations class, we heard a guest lecture on international crisis management, refugee services, and systematic violence. The topic was heavy and overwhelming, and I know I wasn't the only one who left that class a little emotionally exhausted. However, the lecture was also interesting and inspiring, both to hear about the amazing work that social workers can do internationally, but also to see and hear the amazing stories told by the people they work with - stories of overcoming fear and violence to move into a life of peace and consistency. 

Jacob did not pass his exam for the police department, and so once again his life is uncertain. I know his story depicts a certain level of the “American dream”, a certain haze of “if you work hard enough, anything is possible” – a sentiment that so many people like Jacob will work their whole lives for but never make any real headway. However, I do believe that the more stories we hear like Jacob’s, the more we can begin to change our perception of what it is to be successful in this country.