Idealism

Today, I went to work early to attend a meeting for one of the projects I am managing. We had called together all the heavy hitters to address the setbacks and slowing that has taken us off track. My job is to make sure the project completes on time and under budget. The way things are going, it seems unlikely to impossible, but I remain hopeful.

As the important and interested parties parted, I gathered my notes and files and asked one of our consultants a nagging question: Can we do this?

She responded politically: Ideally, she said, if everything goes well, we can meet our schedule.

Good, I replied. Because we're in the business of "ideally."

* * *

In my paid hours of the week, I work with a non-profit organization that serves mentally ill and homeless adults. Prior to my professional hiatus, I oversaw the agency's non-clinical operations, which included job training, the provision of two daily hot meals, and the administration of social and recreational classes, all with the goal of helping the people we serve to reintegrate into the community. Upon my return, I have worked in an entirely different capacity and towards more external pursuits; instead of providing and guiding direct service, my experience is now used in ways that remind our community, donors, and partners of why we do what we do.

I can see past the red tape, the bureaucracy, the seemingly arbitrary requirements and deadlines, because at the end of the day, when it does work out, a handful of people who have nowhere else to go will have a home of their own.

There are many deserving individuals, communities and causes to serve, and this one presents unique challenges. Mental illness, especially when combined with homelessness and substance addiction, is not a glamorous cause. The days are not easy for our staff or our clients, their problems are not quickly or easily solved. Sometimes the best work that is done is to maintain the status quo, and stability is seen as progress.

I share this not to solicit funds, empathy or awareness, but to explain why I remain an optimist.

If we have hope, we have something. "Ideally" is at least a place to start.