I had so many "Yess!" (in my Keke Palmer voice) moments during this week's readings. I really resonated with so much whether it was based on my own experiences and upbringing or how I view myself and my role as a youth worker.
There were two quotes in particular from Pegah's chapter that really popped out at me. The first was "If you make a scene, i'mma make a scene!" My immediate reaction was to laugh, as I thought the quote def sounded like something my Momma or any Momma from my community would say, as a stern reminder not to act up in public and embarrass us. The guidance I took away from it was your behavior influences my behavior. To me the most important take away was, we are in this together.
The next quote that stood out to me was "Nothing about Us, Without Us, Is for Us."
I found it to be so impactful that I had to read it again to make sure I understood it right. I connected this quote with the first three rungs on the Ladder of Youth Participation. The message I received was that the youth will not stand by and be manipulated, decorative, tokens of the image some adults try to portray in the name of empowering youth.
I had another "Yesss!" moment while reading about Key Moments.
There were so many times as a youth that I can remember having "Ahhhaaa!" moments.That moment when the light just flickers on and you get it! Your understanding has been deepened. During some of those moments I remember having adult supports to help me propel my understanding to the next level, but more often than not, I did not. I appreciate the impact support can have. To customize and tailor your support for that individual, in that particular moment of their life can be pivotal in the way the youth processes future life issues and situations. It is like building a toolbox for life with the youth.
No comments:
Post a Comment