“What I am about to be
I am now becoming,” —author unknown

Our global community is in a constant state of change. For the majority of us, the problems caused by this ever-changing movement require continual reflection on our perceptions and life direction from year to year.

The effort needed to produce change can be viewed as an overwhelming task to say the least. As adults, we spend considerable time pondering the stumbling blocks that are constantly put in front of us as we struggle to meet our goals in life. When our problems become overwhelming, we may call a friend, or someone who will lend an ear to our perception of what is happening. We all need someone who will listen to our thoughts, ideas, dreams or wishes at some point in our lives. It is important for us to know that our opinion counts, and that someone cares enough to help us in a time of need. As our basic needs are met, then it becomes easier to face problems and begin to make the necessary changes that will improve our lives.

Children and youth want and need the same consideration, someone to listen to their feelings, ideas and opinions. Unfortunately, for many of our young, there is no listening ear. For some children and youth, the CYC service provider may be one of the few positive role models they encounter. Therefore, it is paramount that we respectfully listen to the stories of their world from their perspective. It is difficult to comprehend the problems that some children and youth must face through no fault of their own. They are products of the environments within their family, their community, and the world. Their struggles are often overlooked in the fast pace of our times. Unless we take the time to listen, it is difficult to provide the kind of help these children and youth need to overcome obstacles. The expectation is not always to fix the problem, but to show respect for their opinion and perspective.

The beginning of helping oneself is to know that the ‘self ’ is worthy of the help. The exploration work needed to help meet the challenges and roadblocks of any client, must be done with respect, leaving dignity intact. This can be accomplished as strengths not just weaknesses are recognized and explored. Discovering strengths is an important part of empowerment that enables a greater acceptance of responsibility for behavior as well as a willingness to meet the challenges of unexpected life situations. Children and youth need to be heard. Then and only then can the real work begin!

Children are a Promise

Children, full of promise
With endless opportunities
They emanate Potentiality
If we as helpers really listen
To hear what they have to say
And we empower them with choices
To assist them on their way
Children will quickly come to see
Numerous options filled with Possibilities