What's Boring Is Necessary

Recently, I have spent a lot of time dealing with IT issues and doing other computer-based tasks for the Aftercare department here at IJM-Guatemala. For instance, this morning I found myself practically crab-walking under my desk to switch out the CPU for my computer. And most of today was spent changing the service status of this year's clients in IJM's online database. It's definitely not the stuff of glamour or excitement.

 

I think that we are all intellectually aware that this part of the work of justice and rescue is a reality and must be done; yet, for me, it is still a revelation to encounter it and do it firsthand. It is easy to imagine the rescue from the brothel, the arrest of the pimp or perpetrator, and maybe even the therapy that is delivered after rescue; but at least when I have read and thought about cases in the past, I have not thought about the computer/clerical work, the day-to-day logistics, and the other mundane parts of the system in any depth. The work of justice and providing rescue and healing is a long, arduous battle- full of frustrations, setbacks, and just plain boring work.

None of this is particularly mind-blowing or revelatory, I realize. But knowing something and experiencing/doing it are truly two different things. My hat (or sombrero, rather) goes off to my colleagues here at IJM-G and at HQ and around the world for fighting this difficult fight. I am surrounded by heroes as I type this. And that is the truth!

IJM Mission Statement

To protect the poor from violence by rescuing victims, bringing the criminals to justice, restoring survivors to safety and strength, and helping local law enforcement build a safe future that lasts.