“Children must be taught how to think, not what to think.” – Margaret Mead
I strongly believe that one of the greatest gifts of growing old is being able to be the person you needed when you were younger. Make it so the generation below you doesn’t have to experience the hurt you did, help them to be bold and courageous. Teaching kids that their voice is powerful and deserves to be heard.
Thank about who you needed when you were a kid? Did you need encouragement, a shoulder to cry on, a car ride outside the house, or just someone to be there and listen? Whatever you needed as a kid I can guarantee you there is a kid right now that is in a similar position and is wishing for the same thing.
There might be a bit of a generational divide in technology, slang, etc. but despite all this, we are still humans. We are humans with human problems. It is your turn to break the generational curses that hold tight.
Give your younger self a hug, let them know that they are doing their best, and then be that person you needed so desperately for others. Teach the lessons you wish you were taught years before, speak up for those that are too scared to speak, hug the little ones that are trying so hard to stay strong, love the kids that don’t know what love feels like.
The power is in your hands, so use it, do not let the power or experience you have go to waste.