We Are the World - Wednesday

I wrote a nice long post on Jodie Sweetin's (aka Stephanie Tanner) new(ish) autobiography, but then I realized that it's better Trash Talk Tuesday material, than a random Wednesday post.  So, you'll get to read it next week.  Don't cry, I know it's tough for you.

Instead, I've decided to instate one additional Theme Day.  One of my favorite blogs, Life in Pink, is part of "Where in the World Wednesday".  I thought about joining in, but I haven't been to all that many exciting places, and I don't know where any of my pictures are, anyway.  And, I hate pictures of me.  So, instead, it's 

"WE ARE the World Wednesday" 

at Musical Musings!!!

I am going to BRIEFLY (since Trash Talk tends to get a little long-winded) spotlight someone or something that is trying to make the world a better place.  It might be a philanthropic celebrity (but NO Brangelina for this girl, sorry), a local do-gooder, a worthwhile program, or maybe even me!

In fact, let's start with me.

Well, not really me, but rather a program with which I am trying to get involved.  After they run a background check, speak to three references, and conduct a personal interview with me, I am hoping to serve the local court system as a...  

Guardian ad Litem 

This is a fantastic program in which several of my classmates got involved while we were in law school.  Basically, a Guardian ad Litem, or "GAL" is an advocate for abused or neglected children - providing them with a voice in court that they otherwise wouldn't have.  GALs protect the interests of children that are in the care of DSS (social services, or "the system"), and are the subject of custody disputes.  The goal of a GAL is to represent the child's needs and wishes in court, in order to assure that he/she ends up in the best possible living situation.  My friends have incredible stories of their GAL experiences, and they truly are inspiring.  I debated being a GAL while I was in law school, but I wasn't in a place to deal with the sadness and tragedy that I thought I'd have to witness.  Not saying I'm at the pinnacle of emotional stability now, but I think it's time.  For some reason, I am suddenly overwhelmed by the compulsion to join this fantastic cause, and put my otherwise useless legal education to work for someone who really needs it.  And, from what I hear, the incredible difference you can make in a child's life, and the amazing feeling of helping an abused or neglected kid find a stable and loving home, FAR outweigh any sadness you might encounter.  

I would urge you to look into this program in your state.  You don't have to be a lawyer to serve - GALs come from all walks of life.  All they're looking for is someone with compassion, a love for kids, and a belief in justice.  I'll even help you take the first step.  Click on the picture below and enter your state and zip to find a program near you.  Check it out, and give back.  I can't wait to start, and share my stories with all of you!  

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To celebrate the first ever WATW Wednesday!

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PS: I didn't want to share other people's stories without their permission, so if you're reading this and you've been a GAL, please tell us about it in a comment below!!!