Most of us at one time or another have paused to ask ourselves if we are on the right road. Are we spending our time in meaningful ways which allow us to contribute with a passion and purpose? If our answer is no, there can be a feeling of regret for having spent far too long running in the wrong direction.
For those who have chosen to live authentically and spend their time meaningfully, there is a sense of thriving, wholeness, and happiness that is almost palpable.
Youth ask themselves the same questions and they also struggle to find their purpose. Far too often we hear young people say things like, “you don’t understand, you never listen.” Translated those words mean, “you do not see me for who I am inside”.
Our society has done a great job of filling our young people up with rules, values, academics, and social skills but we have forgotten to pull out what already exists within them. Simply said, we have forgotten to ask them, “What is your breath? What is it that makes you feel alive, that makes you shine, and gives you purpose?”
According to Search Institute, the activities that make us feel alive are called sparks. Sparks come in many forms including writing poetry, dancing, drawing, service to others, sculpting, reading, taking photographs, playing an instrument, just to name a few. Creative Activities, Asset no. 17, is one of the 40 Developmental Assets; the values, experiences, and qualities that help young people grow up healthy, caring, and responsible.
As adults it is our responsibility to recognize the sparks that already exists within the young people in our lives and pull them out. We must provide opportunities for youth to develop and harness their passion in meaningful and empowering ways.
Adolescence is a time of great change, youth need opportunities to explore new activities and find their passion through a series of exciting adventures. When adults take the time to validate the gifts they see in young people, barriers break and youth feel “seen”, valued, and feel a renewed sense of purpose.
All young people have a spark within them and are often waiting for a caring adult to help them identify what it is. Those who are lucky enough to know their spark, need three or more adults who see them for what they bring to the world in order to keep their fire lit.
Negative feedback or discouraging words can diminish their flame; a dangerous and destructive path that leads youth to a place of feeling undervalued and limits them from reaching their full potential.
As adults we must encourage young people as they pursue their quest in identifying the passion that exists within and know that over time this passion can change. Be flexible and show support as they bravely step out into new territories.
As adults we must take the time to help youth learn their heart song and hum it to them every day as loudly as we can as a reminder of the good, beautiful, and unique gifts they bring to this world.
Allison Heidorn is outreach and marketing coordinator for Healthy Aroostook/Drug Free Communities. She can be reached at 207-999-1014.
