Teens are Awesome!

I feel like I read a lot about our youth that is bad. They are often labeled as entitled, disrespectful, and dumb (I'm thinking eating Tide pods). I see a different side.
I facilitate a group for youth in eighth through twelfth grades, typically every other Thursday. I always leave the group impressed. The insight the young people show is impressive. We've covered topics such as peer pressure, consent, stigma of mental illness, school support, and even processed feelings after the Florida school shooting. These "kids" express a wide range of emotions and display deep thoughts on the topics. They also support one another and wish others (think adults) would too.
Of course, they discuss some things youth do that is disrespectful or dumb, but who isn't that way at some point. The cool thing is they are able to recognize that behavior as negative (even if it is their own) and gain ideas on how to change it from each other.
I am privileged to be a part of their conversations and share my "old" perspective on things.
I encourage everyone to take some time to talk and listen (really listen) to our youth. You might be surprised with what you hear and learn.