Posted by msfiddler on July 21, 2011, 11:56 am, in reply to "Re: This is Sick.."
As a youth leader I work a lot with teens. Not saying I'm an expert but I've learned a lot about what's going on with them. I've found that there is not a lot of "affection" such as hugging, quality time, communication, encouragement etc. Not saying they have "bad parents" but some have parents who just don't have time to spend with them. In today's society, many have to work (both parents) two jobs to make ends meet, or single parent households where the parent is working or going to school to better their lives. Then there is the "my parents just don't understand me" syndrome....we've all been through that. I deal with a lot of different situations with these kids. One thing I really try to do is encourage them and build them up. They all know I love them dearly! I always tell them positive things about them. When they need a hug, I hug them. I spend time letting them talk about what's going on with them and together we come up with solutions, if possible, or just sit and cry with them. One thing I know, the want validation. They want to know they matter and have a purpose. I know some of you on here think I come across as sickenly sweet. Well, it's genuine. I have aquired this attitude because I was so tired of negativity and being told bad things about me to tear me down. My ex was good at belittling people, mostly me. By the time I divorced him, I had NO self-esteem, was convinced I was the worst person walking this earth, I had no value what so ever. I had been physically, mentally and verbally abused for 28 years. I chose to rise above this with a better attitude and reach out to those who are experiencing the same thing. I chose to work with kids, teens to strengthen them and build them up and help them find solid ground. I think it takes more than the family to raise kids. I think we all need to reach out and encourage not just kids but each other. This is a world that loves to tear people apart pointing out the negative in people and using that. I chose to dig deep and bring out the positive. I guess I'm rambling. Just want to say, "open your eyes, talk to your kids, strive to spend quality time with them. Let them know, by telling them, that they are the world to you!
on July 21, 2011, 11:56 am, in reply to "