2 be positive or 2 be real-No Matter What

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   H.C Porterposted 12 years ago

   I spent today volunteering at a place that assists young girls who have or are having a child. These are literally children having children-with no where to go & no one to lean on. I was there taking photos of these young ladies with their children (because most have not a single photo of themselves or their kids). I found myself having flash backs not necessarily of an event, but of an emotional state of mind. I tried to relay encouragement,and hope of their bright futures.
   
   A few of these girls shared their dreams and goals with me, and as I told them to hold on to their dreams tight and work hard to accomplish them. I felt proud of each and every one of them, for remaining strong and continuing to dream. On the other hand, I know firsthand how hard their lives are going to be, and how hard accepting themselves truly is.
   
   I love volunteering and encouraging these girls- but I am afraid for them. As an adult whom they are looking up to; should I ever tell them that life can suck- it is hard and it can break you down if you are not careful? Or should I lie (not lie but encourage, hope and assume), and say things will become easier and as long as they dream and work hard they can accomplish their dreams?
   
   I guess my question is, when or if in such a situation-should you ever tell fully the truth of what is to come or just be positive in every way to give them hope to move towards?

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      sofsposted 12 years agoin reply to this

      How wonderful to meet a beautiful human being.. you are doing what many people have neither the time or the inclination to do. Hats off to you lady.. they will look up to you because you have a heart!
      They know life sucks .. you don't have to tell them that do you? The lamp does not speak of darkness.. it just sheds light..be the lamp that lights up their ;lives.. be the hope they have not seen..be the encouragement that they have never heard..be the strength that they need
      Keep doing what you do... The essence of life is HOPE!!

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   icountthetimesposted 12 years ago

   It sounds like you're a very caring person, so I can understand you wanting to shelter tham from further hardship in life. I don't think you have to go out of your way to avoid talking about the negative aspects, but you don't need to dwell on them either. It's all about finding a balance. Clearly there's no point scaring them with every issue that may or may not enter their life. These girls are likely in a situation and a point in time where they need a boost in confidence and to know that people care. To me it sounds like you already have the right approach and are being overcritical of yourself.

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