Journal 9 -- Thoughts on Adolescents

I don’t think there’s so much of a difference between the needs of adolescents and the general public. Sure, sure, we can get into the details and there are many specific needs that do need addressing and a special focus. But I’m talking about the needs of the heart and spirit. The basic need for love, affection, acceptance, protection, independence. We don’t see that these needs aren’t there in children, nor do we see them disappear in adulthood. If we looked at a scale, some would pop up stronger in different age groups than others, and that is what we’re honing in on, but it doesn’t mean we have to come up with totally new approaches to needs that are met by the same principals for us all.

Adolescents can get caught in a stream of conformity and expectation as they are trying to own who they are. Following the stream is easy and not always negative. Individually should be praised. Communal building based on the strengths and weakness of individuals should be addressed. Humans are made for connection with each other. We need each other. Adolescents need to learn to be in the stream of fishes while not feeling lost or like they’ve disappeared.

When I think of working with adolescents I get excited because I see so much creativity in them that sometimes, sadly, is on the brink of being snuffed out by systems and conformity. Giving adolescents a wide variety of art materials to work with, with no rules about combining materials, etc, can be empowering for them.

I’ve worked with adolescents on a drama team before. Acting out emotions and scenes that deal with heavy issues can be a good introspective activity for adolescents. Providing reflective time after drama play is important.

When Jesus called the disciples we sometimes have this view they were adult men in their 30s, but very likely they were younger lads. And the women who followed Jesus were also probably of varying ages. Mary, Jesus’ mother on earth really went against the stream at a young age. What gave her and the disciples the courage to abandon a “status quo” life and live for Jesus? They were compelled by the love and security in that love that God brings. Humans are compelled by love, we are draw to love. Adolescents need to know that they are loved, that circumstances may not turn into rosie rainbows and cupcakes, but they can be secure in love by the true love-giver-God.  This message can be “told” to adolescents in many creative ways, through dramas, dances, music, and combinations of it all! I would love to have a “workshop” day with adolescents where they are free to question and explore, using creative reflection after music and dance performances. As Jesus called to the disciples to “come and see,” we can call adolescents to come and see there is hope to be found.