Today in Basic Life Skills the youth had an open discussion about last day of school.
One young man said, “I did it. I graduated from high school! I’m so thankful cause I didn’t see myself finishing. I was a very troubled teen. I was always in the streets doing wrong. I didn’t even think I would be alive. With the help of others and an outreach organization (Osiris) my life started to change for the better. I got a job along with some basic life skills. I even get along with my mom. So the last day of school is now a piece of cake and a new beginning for me!”
“The last day of School is not good because their will be lots of fights going on,” some of the youth said.
“Will you be part of the fighting?” I asked them. They all said No
“We know the place the fighting will be. We will go a different way.”
One young man spoke up. “It was a time when I would be mixed up in the fighting but not now. I have too much to lose. I’ve changed for the better and I want to stay on the right path.”
They all agreed. “The last day will be hard so we just have to take a different path.”
Working with the youth I can see a change in their lives. I know people who know them can see a change too.
We have one youth who is graduating and thinking about attending college.
Another youth is in summer school so he can graduate on time. The rest of the youth pass to the next grade.
Youth taking control of their lives.
I told them all how proud I felt. Grins all around. They are proud too!
2 Comments
I too have a daughter that has recently graduated from highschool. Although, she was very excited, she had mixed feelings about the excitement of it all and the reality of now starting her life as an adult. Her future begins now and all the good and the bad will fall directly on her. Having positive role models and a strong base, from where ever it comes from, is the greatest stepping stone for the future.
As she begins her life’s journey to the future the advise I gave her was to take help when it’s offered, never be afraid to ask questions and always be true to yourself. One of my favorite quotes from one of my favorite authors, who also happens to be a great stepping stone for many youths is this….BE WHO YOU ARE AND SAY WHAT YOU FEEL…THOSE THAT MIND, DON’T MATTER AND THOSE THAT MATTER, WON’T MIND….Dr. Seuss
Always shoot for the Moon – graduates, because even if you miss every now and then, you will always be among the stars!!! Shine on….
Elberta – thank you for being such a strong base for so many of us – young and old. B.
Hi Elberta,
I always look forward to hearing your stories about the youth. It is very touching to hear them express the changes they have made in their lives. Their recent comments brought back more memories of my high school days as well.
These young people will always have a special place in their hearts for you.
S