“It takes a village to raise a child.”
I’m sure many of you have heard this expression before. Though it’s exact origins are unknown, it is an African proverb that communicates a simple but profound truth: Entire communities must be involved in the process of nurturing the world’s most valuable resource – our children and our youth.
What I really like about this expression though, is the singularity and specificity of “child”. It seems to say, even if there was just one child in an entire village (or town, or city) the entire population would still need to be invested in the healthy development of that one child. Can you imagine what that might look like?
As we begin our series, TIME FOR CHANGE, and as we contemplate a better future for our children and our youth, I believe we must move from the mentality of:
“It’s not my problem!”
to
“It is my privilege!”
It is a privilege to be a part of raising up the next generation! Can you think of anything more important? If we truly want to effect change in our world it begins with our children and our youth. We cannot wash our hands of this responsibility. We cannot simply say that this is someone else’s job. We cannot even say, “I’ll look after mine and you look after yours.” What we need to realize is that WE ARE THE VILLAGE. And just in case that’s not clear enough, I’ll rephrase and say: YOU ARE THE VILLAGE and our children and youth need you!
So practically speaking, what does this mean? Let me offer just a few suggestions, simply as a starting point, and specifically with a mind to youth:
1. When you see teenagers around town or in your neighbourhood, don’t “other” them in a way that let’s you think of them or treat them poorly. Imagine them as if they were your own kids and treat them with dignity and respect.
2. Look for ways to encourage them, to lift them up, and remind them that they are not invisible. Never underestimate the power of a kind word. Many teens never hear them … and they need to!
3. Get to know your neighbours and your neighbours kids. Smile at them and say hi to them when you see them. Even if they act awkward or embarrassed, I can assure you it means a lot to them. It lets them know there is a community around them that cares.
4. Talk to teenagers like they are adults and not children. Don’t talk down to them or demean them. Though they are not adults, they are quick to discern those who treat them as equals and those who treat them as less than. You will have greater influence with a teenager if they know you respect them.
5. Look for ways you can intentionally get involved with and/or support youth in your community. Whether in a volunteer capacity or by financially supporting organizations that support youth, do what you can to invest in the meaningful work of “raising a child” in your community.
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Sincerely, and with gratitude,
Michael Burns
Director | RE:SOUL Youth Centre