Mi Reflejo vs. My Reflection: What a Pop Song Taught Me About My Job

Good morning! Welcome to The Clinical Compass. My name is Joseph Barbe-Williams, and as a student that is set to graduate with my MSW this April, I would like to discuss something about this field that I find most relatable: listening. 

Where can adequate listening skill be found in medical social work? Perhaps in a 25-year-old pop song. 

My specific interest is the Spanish version of a song featured in the 1998 film, Mulan,"Mi Reflejo." 

The Impact of the Original Language

I don't care what anyone says. Mi Reflejo is far better than the English version, My Reflection. Mi Rflejo possesses a passion and musical influence, to me, that the English version lacks. However, the compare between the two is about more than just a musical opinion. It's about the are of international communication and deciphering the material for meaning. 

When I listen to Spanish music (I am currently studying Spanish), my brain shifts into hyper-focused mode. I cannot simply hear the melody; I have to diligently try to decipher the message. This persistence signifies the core of social work practice: how hearing and listening differ. 

Three Take-Aways from Language Learning That Enhance My Social Work Practice: 

1. Encourage Clarity and Stop Assuming: When I first began listening to Spanish music, I assumed that the Spanish version directly reflected the English version. However, that couldn't be more wrong. It is easy to assume with patients as well. Sometimes we assume one's needs based on limited information. Both social work and language arts require us to defer away from assuming, and actively listen to obtain the full context. 
2. Emphasize the Awkward Silence: Achieving fluency is no cakewalk. You have to be patient and content with not knowing the correct term. In a field like social work, silence can be an incredibly effective therapeutic tool. When patients or family members are having a hard time to express a necessity, I have learned that, rather than providing my own suggestions, allowing the client the time to gather their words is best practice. 
3. Effort is Empathy: Upon taking the time to truly listen to a patient's story, they typically feel heard. Upon taking the time to learn the grammar of a new language, I present respect to that culture. The work I put forth to practice active listening and learning, whether it's a patient's story or a new language, is the maximum effort I can provide. 

Share with me one song, game, or hobby that has embraced your professional skills and/or development. 

Mi Reflejo vs. My Reflection: What a Pop Song Taught Me About My Job