BETTER SOLUTIONS

In my mental health recovery, one of the most powerful messages I ever received was that "The Expectation is Recovery!" This was powerful because it communicated that recovery is a very real option. I learned this message from the State of Illinois, Department of Human Services/Division of Mental Health. I think the Illinois General Assembly should be afforded the same kind of powerful message, a hopeful message that puts the focus on what is possible instead of what is not possible. In our phone calls and letters, we need to communicate our expectations for the best possible outcome by stating the following.

"We expect better budgeting solutions that will meet the health, safety and welfare needs of persons dependent upon human services."

I am reminded of Apollo 13 and how NASA was faced with a seemingly impossible situation, much like the leadership of our state is in right now. Here are some additional messages you may wish to communicate with elected officials based on clips from the movie.

THEIR PRESENT PLAN WILL FAIL & FAILURE IS NOT AN OPTION
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wW7MGTSbSxc&feature=related

BE CREATIVE WITH SOLUTIONS SO BUDGET CUTS DON'T COST LIVES http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z3csfLkMJT4&feature=related

THESE DIRE FINANCIAL TIMES MAY BECOME OUR FINEST HOUR
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eOkAyUmyQko&feature=related

Critical decisions will soon be made (possibly this week) about the Illinois Budget. Please, if you haven't already, place a call to your Representatives and Senators urging them to find better budgeting solutions that will meet the health, safety and welfare needs of persons dependent upon human services. Thank you for your advocacy efforts. TOGETHER WE MAKE A DIFFERENCE!