To some, the work of a child abuse investigator can seem filled with misery and despair.
It’s true that it’s pretty dark when you’re up to your elbows in a sex abuse case.
But there is also much joy to experience in this line of work, if only you look for it.
Many of the families I work with have loved ones who have been right there by their side, working as hard as they can to help that family and keep the children safe.
There are people in schools, daycares, and churches, who knew something wasn’t quite right in the homes of some children, so they gave those kids a little extra affection, or maybe pooled their meager earnings to buy clothes, food, or diapers to help the family out of a jam.
There are helping professionals who work diligently with families, keeping odd work schedules and coming up with creative solutions to meet families’ needs.
And then there are the children. They are strong, vibrant, and filled with life. They are survivors who can face adversity with determination to make it through.
Their capacity to heal is nothing short of amazing. Children who have been abused or neglected for years, when planted in a nurturing environment, can blossom into fascinating creatures.
Yes, there is much pain in what I do. But there is even more hope. And, honestly, where would any of us be without hope?
There’s plenty of jobs out there that pay better, but money will never match the rewards that come from helping another human being.
Dogpaddling Through Life 
Jen you are an angel.
Nope, I simply choose to see the good as well as the bad.
Thanks to you for making this world a little better.
I’d like to think we all do our part.
That’s a very lovely thing to say. You definitely make a difference.
I hope so. It’s why we do it.
So little can mean so much to an abused child. It must be very difficult to see what heartless people can do to helpless children. Bless everyone who chooses to help make life easier for those less fortunate.
It sounds silly but I am almost jealous of the job you do. It matters so much and makes such a difference. The same can’t be said about my current role.
Need more people around like you Jen xxx
The kids are amazingly resilient – and forgiving of so much. Bless the teachers/neighbors who see and tell, advocates that step up, and the foster homes that shelter giving parents time to get it together – or who take on a child who has no safe place to go.
One of my nieces was CPS for a long time – it is wearing. Now she’s a nurse – people don’t shoot at her there.
Rumpy – you have an important job to take care of and support Jen.
I have so so much admiration for the job of work you do Jen… Thank you from my heart to yours for the support you give.. I know as working in support how often it can drain… I am so happy the rewards our weigh the sob stories you must have to cope with…
Working as I do in Support I know the dedication needed.. Many thanks Dear Jen… xxx Sue
I’m sure there’s a lot of pain and horrible things you’ve seen, but where there is hope, there is life.
I understand the fulfillment of heart in helping to make one life better, helping to make the world a better place. Bless you for being there and helping where it’s so badly needed. Love that you interspersed cute photo that had nothing to do with the post. Nice levity but then that speaks to your big heart. Glad to know you. ❤
You’re helping not only poor animals but also poor children…what a great job you do, Jen…..we admire you…..
It’s so wonderful what you’re doing! Investigating child abuse can be very depressing at times. I imagine it can be very difficult to be positive when faced with such human atrocity. But you’re right. Many children are able to overcome this be better people as a result. And they wouldn’t be able to do it if not for people in this world like you who look out for them.
I have said before that I applaud you for the work you do. I couldn’t do that, I know that. It would be incredibly hard….maybe that’s selfish of me, but I would not be able to handle it. I can only imagine the rewards you get when saving a child from abuse. Well done.
ღ husky hugz ღ frum our pack at Love is being owned by a husky!
Thank you for doing what you do, Jen. Thank you.
As a retired teacher, I understand that money is not always the motivation for doing a job.
Oh you know ALL too well!!!!
It’s comforting and heartwarming to know that there are people out there like you who are doing such courageous work.
It’s like what Mr. Rogers said. In the middle of a bad situation look for the helpers. It’s a good reminder.
Thank goodness for people like you, Jen.
I like you, human- and I’m thankful there are PURRfessionals out there like you who go the extra mile to help creatures that are hurting. God bless you and strengthen you in your efforts! *(purrs)*
It’s so sad that there’s so much need for your type of work, but we’re all very blessed to have strong people like you who face these awful situations head-on. You’re the ray of hope.
Amazing you can see the good in a world of child abuse. You are making a difference.
Blessings on you and your work.