Got a Happy Story is a community gathering every Friday night where we share stories large and small that have put a smile on our face. It is a time to acknowledge the joy and wonder we experience. The Happy Story diary exists as a way to anchor the community in hope and comfort while we do the hard work of taking back our country. Everyone and all sorts of stories and pictures are welcome. May we find joy and strength here.
Just this afternoon I said goodbye to a client of mine; she leaves for college on Monday. We've worked together for 5 years, something that is very unusual in my business in this day and age. She's an extraordinary young woman and it has been an honor to work with her. She's being launched out into the world and terminating with her was bittersweet.
When I started the car after leaving the office, the opening strains to Freebird came through my speakers. And I thought it was incredibly appropriate as I drove away from her for the last time. Lynyrd Skynyrd sings, "Will you still remember me?" The answer is yes. I remember all of my clients.
If I leave here tomorrow
Would you still remember me?
For I must be travelling on, now,
'Cause there's too many places I've got to see.
Freebird is hardly one of my favorite songs but today it had a piercing poignancy to it. I saw my very first client 18 years ago. She was almost 3 years old. Between then and now I've met with hundreds of people, some for quick evaluations and some for significant periods of time. I'm a clinical social worker and I have the privilege of being invited into people's lives. I find people incredibly fascinating and their struggles to make better lives for themselves are truly inspirational.
I am not kidding when I say that I remember all of them. The names I can't always recall but the essential person, that I remember. Certain things unique to them grab hold of me during our work together and those things remain long after they have moved on. And every now and again someone comes along who truly stands out, whose name, face, details and appointment time are unforgettable. I remember the others and continue to wonder how they are, even many years later. But those stand outs leave a missing space when they go. My workweek never feels quite the same.
I see that as a testament to the truly remarkable people that they are. I know that each one of them is making a mark on the world in his or her own way. And I feel grateful to have known them, to have witnessed their lives. I feel that way about all of my clients, proud to have known them, awed by their hard work, and grateful that the world has them in it. And for my special freebird, spread your wings and enjoy the sights. You'll be missed.
So if you ever did a little bit of counseling or therapy at some point in your life and you wonder whether your clinician remembers you, the answer is yes. Absolutely.
What's your happy story this week?