Speak up

It takes an entire village to raise a child.

This proverb is proving to be more and more true in today's society. In days of yore, there were a number of established support systems for children ('traditional' family structures, church groups etc) all of which were aimed at helping our youngsters to learn valuable lessons about the relationships that are most important in life, and the ones which can prove to be detrimental.

Unfortunately, many of these structures have disintegrated or been significantly changed in recent years, so much so that some teenagers and children are now asking 'if things are so dangerous, why has nothing changed?' There is truth in this statement, and a challenge to those who have it within their power to make a difference for others who are most at risk. If we are so aware of the factors that have been damaged or completely removed, why have we not put some kind of tool or support system in place?

Adults who are faced with this kind of question are rightfully stymied, because although we have spent vast amounts of energy understanding the socio-economic implications and the statistics, the time is nigh for us to do something concrete to show our children and our teenagers that the love they crave, the sense of belonging they have been looking for, is also valuable to adults.

When she herself was faced with life threatening experiences, Queen Esther prayed fervently and asked God to help her. I can't help but believe that children and teenagers who face the countless pressures of life today, and particularly those who have no other recourse for support, must cry out for help in prayer. If these friends of ours have been lucky enough to have been introduced to a faith dimension in their lives prior to these crisis moments, perhaps their pleas are addressed to God (however they may understand Him). If not, perhaps their cries are aimed in some other direction. Hopefully they do have someone who will listen, someone who they can trust, someone who will check in with them and tell them how much they are loved. If not, the alternatives are not so pretty.

It's not too late though to make a difference in the lives of those who are dear to us. Take the time today to speak with those who are important to you. Take the time to tell them how much you love them. Take the time to make a difference in their lives. They will thank you for it, and you'll know that you're already making a difference, just by speaking up.