Ignorance -Barrier to Empowerment

Wow!It's Monday again. Just came back from 9th ICAAP, Bali. A bit tired and not in the mood to do work. So just curi some time to blog.

Recently something happen around me, both my relatives and friends. I think I wouldn't talk much about their stories, but what I would like to share here is a bit of my thoughts since the incidences.

Those who are close to me these few years will know that I am very much involved in HIV/AIDS, gender, Sexual and Reproductive Health work. I have knowledge (although not the expect int these fields), I know what to do; where to go and so on when we have problems with all these issues. However, sometimes I am sad when I couldn't help those around me when they have all these problems. I, sometimes, can hardly talk to them even though I want to.

I just wonder why people just don't want to listen. I don't want to talk long-winded. I just wanna give referral. I understand people sometimes are not comfortable sharing problems with someone they, but at least give me a chance to tell you where to seek help or what other options are available. Even just this, a lot of times, I was being turned down. They just don't want to listen! and this is why I am so frustrated.

They will always say "you are so lucky, you are educated, you are empowered. That's why you can do whatever you want. I wish that I can be like you" Yes. I was trained. I am empowered. But then part of my job is also to spread the message out to all out there. But if you keep your ears shut, how would that message go through? You say you wanna be like me, but if you don't wanna listen, It will not work.

I don't know how it will work, I am still figuring out. I really wish that I could help. really, really... But the fact is that i can't help at all. That's why I am so so so frustrated....