BY NANCY STOOPS
Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
Soon they will be running our country and have children of their own. Soon they will be telling their children all the things we told them. I have had the honor of working with thousands of kids and teens of this generation and I’m here to tell you that they are amazing.
Now keep in mind there is good and bad in every generation, but I think we have misjudged this one. Yes, some of them have dabbled with drugs and alcohol and some are even afraid to grow up. On the other hand, many of them are working on making this world a better place. The problem is we more often hear the stories about how they are shooting their classmates instead of some of their heroic measures.
Just as we did, they are crying out to be accepted and valued. We shouldn’t put a label of lazy or frightened on this batch of youth because then they might become just that. Instead we need to guide them and encourage them to grow into who God intends them to be. This generation is very gifted in so many ways. They care about making our world a better place, but are frustrated because they don’t know where to begin since we have so many problems. I see many future psychotherapists, environmentalists, lobbyists, songwriters, singers, and attorneys. I have had youth that are interested in pursuing careers in the mental health field come and observe my support groups. I have had some even help me with my groups. Mentoring can make a huge difference in a young person’s life. Mentoring can offer hope and guidance.
Please don’t give up our or youth because that means giving up on our world. Help guide and encourage them to grow into adults that we can be proud of. Teach them to not give up on themselves because each one of them can make a difference.
This article was written by Nancy Stoops, M.A., M.F.T. Nancy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She runs free family support groups, a group on loss for seniors, and groups for teens. For more information about any of these services feel free to page her at (626) 935-3818. You may also email her at stoopsshecter@earthlink.net. Nancy’s book, “Live, Heal and Grow” is available for purchase at www.RoseDogBookstore.com or Amazon.com.
