Young eyes are sharper than ever

    Did you ever get the feeling you were being watched? That your every move was being scrutinized and studied? Probably not as most of us go throughout our days on fast forward not thinking much about the immense responsibility we carry in every word, action, and choice we make. Every day in every way, youth’s eyes are upon you.  They watch as you peacefully resolve a disagreement with a friend, how you show empathy to someone in need, how you chose to spend your time engaged in productive and meaningful activities, and how you keep a level head at times of crisis. Young people are searching for everyday heroes, people who model behavior that is not just appropriate but makes others feel respected, loved and needed. Young people see you, especially if you’re a parent, as the kind of person they want to become. Take a moment to think about your choices…are they the kind of choices you want for your own child?
    Inevitably those behaviors will come back to visit in the words and actions of the youth whose lives you have the honor of being a part of. In the past week with the historic swearing in of then President elect Barack Obama, much has been said about personal responsibility for ones actions and the need for change. As a Country there seems to be a general feeling that it is time to get back to basics and remember the values that unite us regardless of race, religion or socioeconomic background. Having adults in our communities who model honesty, integrity, respect for others, hard work ethic, empathy, service to others and compassion for human kind is the first step in this big word “change” that has fueled President Obama’s entire campaign.
    According to Search Institute surveys, only 27 percent of young people between the ages of 11-18 say their parents or other adults model positive, responsible behavior, asset no. 14 of the 40 Developmental Assets. There is a disconnect between what many well intentioned adults are modeling and what youth perceive. For far too many youth there may simply be a lack of adult presence in their lives. It is difficult to discuss adult role models when their simply is no or very little adult presence in their lives. As for the remainder of youth, their eyes have been watching us even when we thought they weren’t. It is our responsibility to show young people that although we do make mistakes we work hard to be the best we can be. When you could have been kinder, chosen better words or simply made a better choice talk with the young person in your life about ways you could have made better decisions. Being a role model is not about being perfect it is about being real and open when you make a mistake and always trying to do the right thing because it is the right thing to do.
    Everyone needs role models for they help us to dream, plan, set goals and look at our personal future in a more positive light. Role models give us the courage through the way in which they live their lives to reach beyond our personal limits. If every youth in your life could have 3 or more positive adult role models change would happen. It may not be the type of change that puts food on the table in a time of economic hardship such as this but it will give us hope when the mere idea of hope is almost too much to wish for. It gives us heroes at a time when so many people need someone to believe in. It is the kind of change which occurs one word, one smile, one hug and one choice at a time that can transform lives both young and old. Youth are watching…will you be a part of the change?
    Want to know more about the 40 Developmental Assets and ideas for helping young people build them? Visit www.search-institute.org/assets.
    This article was brought to you by Aroostook Substance Abuse Prevention. For more information about ASAP and 40 Developmental Assets contact Allison Heidorn, project assistant at 540-6772 or visit www.asapcoalition.com