"Ask the people..."

Queen Silvy

"Seize upon that moment long ago
One breath away and there you will be
So young and carefree
Again you will see that place in time, so gold...,"

"Stay Gold,"

Stevie Wonder

The motivating/inspiring words I would like to share with our youth during these stressful and challenging times is to remember that no one is alone.    Sadly the tragedy of our educational system is that we do not address the needs of all students.  As a result, it’s extremely important to ask for help when we’re struggling to cope whether academically, emotionally, physically, and/or mentally.  

As students and beyond, each and every one of us is entitled by law to receive assistance we might need to better ensure our well-being when suffering from any type of disability and/or distress, for example.  Unfortunately, many of us are too afraid, embarrassed, and ashamed to ask for help due the risk of being stigmatized and stereotyped.  

Or worse, we simply do not know these programs exist to serve and protect us.  Rather than addressing these and other needs in our youth when we have the best opportunity, as adults we are still struggling—potentials never reached; dreams never realized.

In order to better cope, I would suggest starting with the expertise of the school guidance counselor, trained to listen to understand and address a variety of debilitating issues.    Undiagnosed learning and emotional disabilities can be managed through appropriate modifications that must be maintained not only in public school but also in college as well as employment under the Americans With Disabilities Act.   There is no shame in receiving the help to which we all are entitled.  The real loss is not seeking it.

Always remember, this is YOUR time.  You will NEVER have this moment again. Embrace your youth.   Never lose your childlike sense of wonder because you’re being put into an unfair and sometimes abusive position of growing up too fast. Find the courage to say, “No,” rather than allow others to manipulate you for their own gain without considering your best interests and feelings.    

Celebrate your innocence. Speak your piece LOUDLY. Become an activist and advocate for other young people as well as yourself.  Get involved in groups and activities, feeding your soul. Take advantage of all opportunities to live and learn.

Most of all “stay gold” in spite of all obstacles and hardships you might face now and over a lifetime.   Marvel at our collective humanity—what is good, kind, and just as well as what is not. Learn from your failures and successes-- your gains and losses.  With all the highs and lows life has to offer, take a moment to enjoy your unique journey.  Although never alone be confident in the knowledge that you will always be enough.

The Outsiders-

"Stay Gold,"

Stevie Wonder