Where have you been? A question that has been asked of me several times in the last couple of weeks. People have emailed and called asking why I haven't posted in over a month. I tell them it was because I really wanted Isaiah's story to remain in the forefront and because I was completely consumed with working on a worthy project for some very special kids. I would like to take this opportunity to share what I have been doing. Something that is dear to me and something that I think is really important for others to understand.
If you don't know, in addition to working with teens, I am the founder and executive director of Achievement Services, Inc. (http://www.achievementservices.org/) It's a nonprofit organization that partners with low-performing schools to design and implement out-of-school academic learning opportunities for at-risk students in Baltimore City. It's really cool because I get to act like an "architect" of education....meaning I have the autonomy to study a school, its students, parents and staff and together with a team of advisors, we design a program to meet the needs of that particular school. Our goal is to get kids to like learning and to learn, particularly in reading and math. This past month, I was charged with the task of soley applying for federal funding to implement a program at a Baltimore City School. Achievement Services and helping kids learn and achieve is my passion.
What is your passion? What is it that makes you smile, feel good and want to share with everyone? What is it that gets you up in the morning, regardless of pay? What is it that you feel is your personal calling? For me, that passion would be to find a way to help children achieve beyond the expectations of themselves and others. For me that passion is putting kids in a safe place with safe people and giving them the tools to learn and want to learn in fun, exciting and engaging ways. It there were any downside, it would be the fact that I have to CONSTANTLY worry about having enough money to operate such needed programs for children that will produce countless benefits to kids, families, schools, communities and societies. There is no better money spent than money spent on education for kids. I'll never understand why our society will pay athletes, singers and actors enormous and unimaginable amounts of money and dare say there is not enough money for education, afterschool programs and other learning opportunities that will help to advance others, particularly kids. I wish someone could help me to understand the logic.
So, I am back. Back working with teenagers and back learning from them, as I do each and every day. If you have a passion that is about helping kids, let me encourage you to pursue that passion. The kids need our help, today and always.
Monday, April 5, 2010
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Making History
In the United States there are certain months of the year that are dedicated to the history of a certain group of people such as African Americans, Hispanic Americans, Native Americans and Asian-Pacific Americans. Today is the last day of black history month. Today I would like to present to teens and young people the story of Isaiah Mauzone. His story is a story of success, triumph, perseverence and determination. His story is a story like many teens who grow up in unfortunate circumstances, struggle with the challenges of life and growing up and often feel unsure and perplexed about their own life stories. I have the privilege of working with and knowing some amazing teenagers who sometimes need to hear the story of a teenager who once walked the familiar path of hardship and uncertainty. A teenager who once felt that not having an active father left a big void. A teenager who once felt that no one would understand or could help him with his problems. A teenager who once thought that college may not be for him. Below is a biography and interview with Isaiah Mauzone, a young man who exemplifies that if one is willing to work hard and NEVER give up, life will reward you.
Isaiah Mauzone is a 19-year old, African American male who was born to a single mother and raised in the Sandtown/Winchester neigborhood of Baltimore City. His neighborhood is one that is plagued with underemployed families, poverty, drug use, high crime and gang activity. His neigborhood is also one that boasts a strong religious presence and a longstanding history of families who work hard and believe in education. There was never enough money, never a break from worrying how the bills would get paid and how the family would survive. As a middle school student, Isaiah was attacked and beaten badly by a group of middle school kids who had nothing better to do. Despite his injuries, he refused to miss school. Even though he spent most of his child/school years worrying about adult problems, he still managed to garner an interest in exercising, football, lacrosse, working, drawing and helping others. Throughout most of his high school career he held a job, sometimes two, to contribute toward household expenses. He rarely sees or speaks to his father who did not attend his high school graduation, his proudest moment. In 2009, after much adversity, he graduated from high school and is now a student at the University of Maryland struggling with the decision of which passion to pursue: architecture or physical therapy.
1. How would you describe your high school experience?
Challenging because of standardized testing, class grades and the choice to secure employment to help out at home. It was hard getting everything done. I worried alot about money and making something of myself. I wanted to be self sufficient. I wanted to help out my mom who has given so much.
2. What was the hardest part about high school?
Trying to keep up with the smart students. I wanted to be good at everything I did.
3. What do you think teens go through in high school?
Sex, peer pressure, gangs, street activities and family issues. It's hard for teens because most can't talk to their parents. They need organized stuff to do to stay away from trouble. I think it's also hard for teens when they think about growing up. Most realize that they probably aren't properly prepared for the real world and that they will have to figure it out on their own. That's scary for a young person because you hear about so much bad stuff happening.
4. What would you say to teens who feel discouraged and want to drop out of high school?
Dropping out is not an option. You have to want to become more successful, have more options and not limit yourself no matter what is happening in your life.
5. How do you think growing up in a single-parent household affected you?
It made me want to work harder. I've learned a lot. I don't want my kids to go through what I experienced from my mother and father. That was my motivation.
6. How do you like college life?
I love college life. I love furthering my education, meeting new people, the good environment, being responsible and learning to live independently. There are people there who are willing to help.
7. Any advice for teens who are feeling lost and overwhelmed by the stressors of teen life?
They need to analyze themselves, pay attention to what they do, what they say and who they invite into their social circles. Don't be afraid to ask for help and don't get caught up in things that will cause trouble.
8. A lot is made of role models for teens. Who are your role models?
Jesus Christ, my mother, my brother and the staff of my high school.
9. What do you think parents should understand about their teens?
They should really get to know them, talk to them, spend time with them and allow them to make mistakes. Establishing and maintaining a bond with their child is very important to the child. Parents should also understand that their teen children are watching more of what they do and paying less attention to what they say.
10. If you could change anything about the life of a teenager, what would it be?
Access to good, dedicated mentors, community recreational and educational programs and physical activities.
Isaiah's story is important because he could have gone the other way. The other way of giving up on himself, not reaching out to adults who cared about him and not believing that he possesses the gift of a mind able to take in all the information and knowledge he can grasp. Isaiah did one simple thing: he believed in himself. To all teens: believe in yourself and you too can make history.
Isaiah Mauzone is a 19-year old, African American male who was born to a single mother and raised in the Sandtown/Winchester neigborhood of Baltimore City. His neighborhood is one that is plagued with underemployed families, poverty, drug use, high crime and gang activity. His neigborhood is also one that boasts a strong religious presence and a longstanding history of families who work hard and believe in education. There was never enough money, never a break from worrying how the bills would get paid and how the family would survive. As a middle school student, Isaiah was attacked and beaten badly by a group of middle school kids who had nothing better to do. Despite his injuries, he refused to miss school. Even though he spent most of his child/school years worrying about adult problems, he still managed to garner an interest in exercising, football, lacrosse, working, drawing and helping others. Throughout most of his high school career he held a job, sometimes two, to contribute toward household expenses. He rarely sees or speaks to his father who did not attend his high school graduation, his proudest moment. In 2009, after much adversity, he graduated from high school and is now a student at the University of Maryland struggling with the decision of which passion to pursue: architecture or physical therapy.
1. How would you describe your high school experience?
Challenging because of standardized testing, class grades and the choice to secure employment to help out at home. It was hard getting everything done. I worried alot about money and making something of myself. I wanted to be self sufficient. I wanted to help out my mom who has given so much.
2. What was the hardest part about high school?
Trying to keep up with the smart students. I wanted to be good at everything I did.
3. What do you think teens go through in high school?
Sex, peer pressure, gangs, street activities and family issues. It's hard for teens because most can't talk to their parents. They need organized stuff to do to stay away from trouble. I think it's also hard for teens when they think about growing up. Most realize that they probably aren't properly prepared for the real world and that they will have to figure it out on their own. That's scary for a young person because you hear about so much bad stuff happening.
4. What would you say to teens who feel discouraged and want to drop out of high school?
Dropping out is not an option. You have to want to become more successful, have more options and not limit yourself no matter what is happening in your life.
5. How do you think growing up in a single-parent household affected you?
It made me want to work harder. I've learned a lot. I don't want my kids to go through what I experienced from my mother and father. That was my motivation.
6. How do you like college life?
I love college life. I love furthering my education, meeting new people, the good environment, being responsible and learning to live independently. There are people there who are willing to help.
7. Any advice for teens who are feeling lost and overwhelmed by the stressors of teen life?
They need to analyze themselves, pay attention to what they do, what they say and who they invite into their social circles. Don't be afraid to ask for help and don't get caught up in things that will cause trouble.
8. A lot is made of role models for teens. Who are your role models?
Jesus Christ, my mother, my brother and the staff of my high school.
9. What do you think parents should understand about their teens?
They should really get to know them, talk to them, spend time with them and allow them to make mistakes. Establishing and maintaining a bond with their child is very important to the child. Parents should also understand that their teen children are watching more of what they do and paying less attention to what they say.
10. If you could change anything about the life of a teenager, what would it be?
Access to good, dedicated mentors, community recreational and educational programs and physical activities.
Isaiah's story is important because he could have gone the other way. The other way of giving up on himself, not reaching out to adults who cared about him and not believing that he possesses the gift of a mind able to take in all the information and knowledge he can grasp. Isaiah did one simple thing: he believed in himself. To all teens: believe in yourself and you too can make history.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
What Do You Think?
Hello and welcome back. If this is your first time visiting my blog, I hope you enjoy the read and commit to return. Bookmark, email and text to friends and other teens, conduct discussion groups. For those of you that don't know, this is my space where I share my thoughts, advice and views about teens and young people, based upon my professional and personal experiences. Typically, I select a topic impacting the lives of teens and young people. This time I would like to try something different. Since I began this blog, which I thoroughly enjoy, I have not provided an open opportunity for readers to respond and/or ask questions. This entry is dedicated to you, my readers.
I am very curious about what my readers think, particularly my teen and young readers. I feel fortunate to have acquired readers from many parts of the United States as well as the world. A few have responded directly to me, but most have not. Now is your chance. What do you think about this blog? What do you think are some of the biggest challenges facing teenagers today? What are some questions you have about the behavior of teens? What topics would you like to see addressed in this space? If you are a teen, please share your thoughts here. I ask that you keep your comments constructive and appropriate. If you are an adult, either with or without a teen, please share your thoughts here. I ask that you keep your comments constructive and appropriate. Just click on comment and go for it.
Thanks for your time, comments and questions. I truly hope you find this blog helpful and informative. I know there are many places you could choose to spend your precious time and I feel privileged to have your attention. It is my goal to provide a forum for teens and adults to dialogue, share and learn more about one another. I also hope you enjoy reading as much as I enjoy writing. To all the teens out there, I hope you are enjoying your teenage experience and preparing for your transition to adulthood. Be well.
I am very curious about what my readers think, particularly my teen and young readers. I feel fortunate to have acquired readers from many parts of the United States as well as the world. A few have responded directly to me, but most have not. Now is your chance. What do you think about this blog? What do you think are some of the biggest challenges facing teenagers today? What are some questions you have about the behavior of teens? What topics would you like to see addressed in this space? If you are a teen, please share your thoughts here. I ask that you keep your comments constructive and appropriate. If you are an adult, either with or without a teen, please share your thoughts here. I ask that you keep your comments constructive and appropriate. Just click on comment and go for it.
Thanks for your time, comments and questions. I truly hope you find this blog helpful and informative. I know there are many places you could choose to spend your precious time and I feel privileged to have your attention. It is my goal to provide a forum for teens and adults to dialogue, share and learn more about one another. I also hope you enjoy reading as much as I enjoy writing. To all the teens out there, I hope you are enjoying your teenage experience and preparing for your transition to adulthood. Be well.
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Teens In Trouble
Are teens in trouble? What do you think? I think the question is worth asking and pondering. Clearly, many are not in trouble, but given recent news reports, there are a significant number who are in trouble. The CDC, also known as the Centers for Disease Control, reported that 1 in 5 teens have cholesterol problems. 1 in 5!! Does that sound incredible or unbelievable? Another report out this week indicated that the teenage pregnancy rate has risen for the first time in ten years. In other words, more teens are giving birth to children of their own than have been in the past 10 years. Teenage pregnancy has always been an issue. Apparently, it's becoming an even bigger issue among the young. Violence among teens has increased. We only have to listen to the news to see too many stories of teens being seriously injured or killed as a result of violence. The number of teens dropping out of high school is shockingly high. What are they doing? Where are they living? What are the employment outlooks? There are high numbers of teens who are overweight, spending too much time in front of the television or on the computer and not enough time engaging in any sort of exercise activity.
Having the opportunity to work with young people on a daily basis is an opportunity to transform a life. As I walk in the midst of teens I notice many things about them. Loud voices. Interesting clothes. Junk food. Books. Cell phones. Ipods. Hugs. Kisses. Playful behaviors. Laptops. Conversations about school. Conversations about friends. Conversations about boys. Conversations about girls. Conversations about parents. I wonder if they are aware of the troubles that plague them, so I ask. The responses I receive are varied. Some are keenly aware that their generation has many challenges. Some are more oblivious. Some discuss "teen stuff" with their parents and are comfortable doing so and some don't and aren't comfortable doing so. Some feel that the adults in the world don't pay enough attention to what is going on in their lives. Some feel that they are old enough to make their own choices. Some feel that the "world" allows them to get away with things that should be reserved for adults and that teens have too much freedom. Some feel that enormous pressures are placed upon them without adequate support.
Here's what's important for teens to know: Be conscious and aware of your health. Stop drinking so many sodas and fruity juices. They are loaded with sugar. Drink more water and non-carbonated drinks. Stop eating so much fried foods, potato chips, cookies, candy and all the other snacks you can't seem to eliminate from your diet. Pay attention in health class. You just may learn some useful information. Take school and your education seriously. Dropping out of school will not solve any problems. It will create more. Without a high school diploma, life will be very challenging and most likely, unfulfilling. Stay away from places and people who engage in violent activities. They may put your life and the lives of others in jeapardy. Consider the serious consequences of engaging in sexual behaviors. Putting yourself in a position to become a parent is a serious decision. Child-rearing is a lifetime commitment, meant for adults. Trust me when I tell you that it is hard for a child to raise a child. What is the lesson here? Stay in school. Listen to your parents, your teachers and mentors. Ask for help when needed. Think about the consequences of your decisions before you make them. Help each other and instead of looking for a role model, be a role model.
Having the opportunity to work with young people on a daily basis is an opportunity to transform a life. As I walk in the midst of teens I notice many things about them. Loud voices. Interesting clothes. Junk food. Books. Cell phones. Ipods. Hugs. Kisses. Playful behaviors. Laptops. Conversations about school. Conversations about friends. Conversations about boys. Conversations about girls. Conversations about parents. I wonder if they are aware of the troubles that plague them, so I ask. The responses I receive are varied. Some are keenly aware that their generation has many challenges. Some are more oblivious. Some discuss "teen stuff" with their parents and are comfortable doing so and some don't and aren't comfortable doing so. Some feel that the adults in the world don't pay enough attention to what is going on in their lives. Some feel that they are old enough to make their own choices. Some feel that the "world" allows them to get away with things that should be reserved for adults and that teens have too much freedom. Some feel that enormous pressures are placed upon them without adequate support.
Here's what's important for teens to know: Be conscious and aware of your health. Stop drinking so many sodas and fruity juices. They are loaded with sugar. Drink more water and non-carbonated drinks. Stop eating so much fried foods, potato chips, cookies, candy and all the other snacks you can't seem to eliminate from your diet. Pay attention in health class. You just may learn some useful information. Take school and your education seriously. Dropping out of school will not solve any problems. It will create more. Without a high school diploma, life will be very challenging and most likely, unfulfilling. Stay away from places and people who engage in violent activities. They may put your life and the lives of others in jeapardy. Consider the serious consequences of engaging in sexual behaviors. Putting yourself in a position to become a parent is a serious decision. Child-rearing is a lifetime commitment, meant for adults. Trust me when I tell you that it is hard for a child to raise a child. What is the lesson here? Stay in school. Listen to your parents, your teachers and mentors. Ask for help when needed. Think about the consequences of your decisions before you make them. Help each other and instead of looking for a role model, be a role model.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Teens In Haiti
Haiti. Until last week it was probably not a place in the forefront of the minds of people who reside elsewhere. Probably not a place where many have studied or visited. Probably not a place where it was thought unimaginable tragedy might occur. Tragedy did occur and the people of the world, teens included, are left to ask: Where do we begin to understand? Where can we get some reasonable rationalization? Who can help us to make sense of such enormous tragedy, death and destruction? What is going to happen to the people of Haiti... the children, the teenagers, the adults, the elderly?
It's a safe guess that most of the teenagers in Haiti are probably similar to teenagers in other parts of the world. They probably like to socialize. They probably like sports. They probably sometimes like school and sometimes don't like school. They probably want to be independent of their parents, yet still depend on them for guidance, direction and money. They probably endure feelings of stress and confusion regarding boyfriends or girlfriends. They probably engage in HS rivalries, enjoy prom and party after graduation. They probably worry about grades and college. They probably are faced with peer pressures such as teenage pregnancy, violence or substance abuse. They probably like to wear the clothes of popular designers and the shoes of famous athletes. They probably sometimes make choices and decisions without regard to consequences. They probably possess raw emotion, frankness and a good sense of right and wrong, as modeled by the adults in their lives.
It's normal for teens to feel unsure about the future. Unsure about decisions regarding educational goals or independent living. As of January 12, 2010, the lives of Haitan teens will never be the same. Gone are the normal stressors and worries that other teens may share. Present is fear, anxiety, devastation. What will they do? Who will help them? What does the future hold for them? When will they be able to experience the life of a "normal" teenager again? When will they hear the sound of the school bell or the voice of a teacher scolding her class for incomplete assignments or the excitement regarding the Friday nite dance or Saturday afternoon ballgame? What will they tell teens who will come after them about life in the aftermath of an earthquake?
What can other teens do? First, understand that life presents many challenges, some fair and some not fair. Understand that your life as a teen is "cake" compared to the life of a teen in another part of the world. Understand that the teens of Haiti are in need of goodwill. Goodwill in the form of knowing that they share the bond of "adolescence" with all the teens of the world. Teens like to help other teens. They do it everyday in their own environments. If you want to help the teens of Haiti, mobilize your friends, peers and classmates to organize donations to send to them in Haiti. They need clothing, shoes, school supplies, books and most importantly, letters and words of support, encouragement and hope for a bright future. Consider giving up a pair of shoes, some sports equipment, some hats to protect from the heat. Make a list of the things you like as a teen. Whatever you can give will be appreciated. Teens in Haiti. They are just like teens everywhere. They need to be given the opportunity, once again, to experience the life of a teenager.
It's a safe guess that most of the teenagers in Haiti are probably similar to teenagers in other parts of the world. They probably like to socialize. They probably like sports. They probably sometimes like school and sometimes don't like school. They probably want to be independent of their parents, yet still depend on them for guidance, direction and money. They probably endure feelings of stress and confusion regarding boyfriends or girlfriends. They probably engage in HS rivalries, enjoy prom and party after graduation. They probably worry about grades and college. They probably are faced with peer pressures such as teenage pregnancy, violence or substance abuse. They probably like to wear the clothes of popular designers and the shoes of famous athletes. They probably sometimes make choices and decisions without regard to consequences. They probably possess raw emotion, frankness and a good sense of right and wrong, as modeled by the adults in their lives.
It's normal for teens to feel unsure about the future. Unsure about decisions regarding educational goals or independent living. As of January 12, 2010, the lives of Haitan teens will never be the same. Gone are the normal stressors and worries that other teens may share. Present is fear, anxiety, devastation. What will they do? Who will help them? What does the future hold for them? When will they be able to experience the life of a "normal" teenager again? When will they hear the sound of the school bell or the voice of a teacher scolding her class for incomplete assignments or the excitement regarding the Friday nite dance or Saturday afternoon ballgame? What will they tell teens who will come after them about life in the aftermath of an earthquake?
What can other teens do? First, understand that life presents many challenges, some fair and some not fair. Understand that your life as a teen is "cake" compared to the life of a teen in another part of the world. Understand that the teens of Haiti are in need of goodwill. Goodwill in the form of knowing that they share the bond of "adolescence" with all the teens of the world. Teens like to help other teens. They do it everyday in their own environments. If you want to help the teens of Haiti, mobilize your friends, peers and classmates to organize donations to send to them in Haiti. They need clothing, shoes, school supplies, books and most importantly, letters and words of support, encouragement and hope for a bright future. Consider giving up a pair of shoes, some sports equipment, some hats to protect from the heat. Make a list of the things you like as a teen. Whatever you can give will be appreciated. Teens in Haiti. They are just like teens everywhere. They need to be given the opportunity, once again, to experience the life of a teenager.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Role Models??
Gilbert Arenas. Chris Brown. Tiger Woods. Brittany Spears. Rihanna. Just a few of many. All very famous and presumably wealthy individuals. All living their lives in the public spotlight. All having to endure their share of "life challenges". All given, solicited and unsolicited, the responsiblilty of ROLE MODEL. Is it fair? Is it justified? Is it needed? Is it wanted? Given recent national news stories regarding each of the above-named individuals, these seem to be fair questions. Do their lives and behaviors and that of other equally public individuals influence the lives and behaviors of teens and young people? The answer to that question is probably "sometimes". As I walk in the midst of teens and young people, I try to seize the opportunity to learn more about how they think, what they think about and why they think what they think. On this particular day, I decide to ask the question, "who are your role models"?
The answers received may be surprising to some. My mom. My grandmother. My teacher. My football coach. My music teacher. My brother. My sister. My next door neighbor. My principal. My friend. It seems as if not all teens consider celebrities and the like their role models. Although they may follow their lives and the twists and turns, they don't necessarily view these individuals as someone, as one teen put it, "to want to be like". When asked why they didn't consider celebrities as role models, one teen replied, "cause they probably have problems just like us". Another replied, " their lives don't seem real". "The money is nice, but they act stupid sometimes", was another response. "Why do they do things when they know people are watching" needed no return reply. One surprising response, "maybe it's the adults who need role models and not us kids", left much to ponder.
As one who is rarely surprised by the insight of teens and young people, I believe they need to know and understand the following. Role models, according to dictionary.com, are defined as persons whose behavior, example, or success is or can be emulated by others, especially by younger people. Role models are good. They are positive. They are inspiring. Their influence is endless. They help teens figure out right from wrong, make good choices, develop self confidence, dream big and aspire large. Role models care about the messages they send and the impact upon the receivers. Role models are real and honest. Real in their existence and honest in their position. My challenge to teens is to figure out who is your role model? Find someone you like and admire because of the good they demonstrate. Find someone you trust that is selfless, giving and understanding. Find someone you can talk to and know they will listen. That person is your role model. That person probably exists within your environment. All you have to do is find them.
The answers received may be surprising to some. My mom. My grandmother. My teacher. My football coach. My music teacher. My brother. My sister. My next door neighbor. My principal. My friend. It seems as if not all teens consider celebrities and the like their role models. Although they may follow their lives and the twists and turns, they don't necessarily view these individuals as someone, as one teen put it, "to want to be like". When asked why they didn't consider celebrities as role models, one teen replied, "cause they probably have problems just like us". Another replied, " their lives don't seem real". "The money is nice, but they act stupid sometimes", was another response. "Why do they do things when they know people are watching" needed no return reply. One surprising response, "maybe it's the adults who need role models and not us kids", left much to ponder.
As one who is rarely surprised by the insight of teens and young people, I believe they need to know and understand the following. Role models, according to dictionary.com, are defined as persons whose behavior, example, or success is or can be emulated by others, especially by younger people. Role models are good. They are positive. They are inspiring. Their influence is endless. They help teens figure out right from wrong, make good choices, develop self confidence, dream big and aspire large. Role models care about the messages they send and the impact upon the receivers. Role models are real and honest. Real in their existence and honest in their position. My challenge to teens is to figure out who is your role model? Find someone you like and admire because of the good they demonstrate. Find someone you trust that is selfless, giving and understanding. Find someone you can talk to and know they will listen. That person is your role model. That person probably exists within your environment. All you have to do is find them.
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Happy New Year
There is no better time than now. No better time to think about past actions or reactions, accomplishments, mistakes, regrets. No better time to think about school, grades, sports, friends, family, parents, boyfriends and girlfriends. No better time to think about what will be done differently this year. How will you be a different, better person? Last year is now gone. It's time to seriously consider a new start, a new beginning. It could be the start or beginning of something big or something small. Something that may impact only you or something that may impact many others. Something that you probably have been giving thought to for a considerable amount of time. In short, it's time to stop doing the same things the same ways and expecting bigger, greater results. Be different. Do different.
New Year's resolutions. I think all people at least THINK about them and young people and teens are no different. They huddle together with friends, talking on the phone, hanging out, texting each other about what they "pledge" to do in the new year, what they hope to obtain, like a new wardrobe or what they hope to change, like a new boyfriend or girlfriend. I often wonder if they think about changing a circumstance or the plight of someone's life. The answers I receive are always inspiring. Helping a friend find a place to live, raise money for the light bill, food bill or mortgage/rent. Helping a friend get over a break-up, the loss of a friendship or some other tragic event or circumstance, such as divorce. Spending time with a friend who is having a hard time with life's challenges and the sometimes stressful times of a teen.
I ask teens this question: What will you do differently this year? Don't answer right away. Think about it. Think about what feels right to you. Think about something that will help you to be a better individual. Will it be to study more? Will it be to take school more seriously? Will it be to read more and learn more? Will it be to be a better friend? Will it be to listen more to your parents and share more with your parents? Will it be to spend more time with family? Will it be to abandon envy, jealousy, disrespect, sadness, intolerance, anger, rage, violence and embrace peace, forgiveness, happiness, understanding, honesty, respect and loyalty? Whatever you decide, may it be something that will build upon your foundation. Your foundation of life, that piece of you that builds character and leaves a legacy for others to follow. Whatever you decide, may it bring joy to you and others, remembering that it's better to give than to receive. HAPPY NEW YEAR!!
New Year's resolutions. I think all people at least THINK about them and young people and teens are no different. They huddle together with friends, talking on the phone, hanging out, texting each other about what they "pledge" to do in the new year, what they hope to obtain, like a new wardrobe or what they hope to change, like a new boyfriend or girlfriend. I often wonder if they think about changing a circumstance or the plight of someone's life. The answers I receive are always inspiring. Helping a friend find a place to live, raise money for the light bill, food bill or mortgage/rent. Helping a friend get over a break-up, the loss of a friendship or some other tragic event or circumstance, such as divorce. Spending time with a friend who is having a hard time with life's challenges and the sometimes stressful times of a teen.
I ask teens this question: What will you do differently this year? Don't answer right away. Think about it. Think about what feels right to you. Think about something that will help you to be a better individual. Will it be to study more? Will it be to take school more seriously? Will it be to read more and learn more? Will it be to be a better friend? Will it be to listen more to your parents and share more with your parents? Will it be to spend more time with family? Will it be to abandon envy, jealousy, disrespect, sadness, intolerance, anger, rage, violence and embrace peace, forgiveness, happiness, understanding, honesty, respect and loyalty? Whatever you decide, may it be something that will build upon your foundation. Your foundation of life, that piece of you that builds character and leaves a legacy for others to follow. Whatever you decide, may it bring joy to you and others, remembering that it's better to give than to receive. HAPPY NEW YEAR!!
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