What are the building blocks to adulthood? Can we spot when a young person is stepping up to the next stage of their life?
Some Ballarat dads penned some beautiful insights about their boys recently.
Young People Step Up in Tough Times
Recently when we had a family member pass away, my son was able to show initiative and help out with his younger siblings. (MK)
Next door neighbour's funeral. Son had the choice to attend school swimming carnival or go to the funeral... chose the funeral and missed out on being part of a winning team. (RR)
When I had to go home to my mother's funeral... he made it easier to go by being strong. (MP)
When my wife was diagnosed with cancer, we tended at the beginning to keep it from him. There was a moment in the hospital when he asked "Mum - why didn't you tell me? You will beat it!" We were both astounded at the way he coped with the serious nature of his mother's illness." (AM)
Young People Step Up into Responsibility (and they love being with you)
I went to cut a load of wood one day and my son insisted he come even though he knew it was hard work. I know he didn't want me to be alone or do all the hard work. (RA).
Yes, he's wanting to drive machines, cars, motor bikes... wants to help dad with business... wants to go camping with dad. (AB)
He shows great skill and concentration moving sheep. (BS)
Yes, when he said he wanted to help with the house. I said no but he kept saying he wanted to come and help. (TS)
When I've headed away to work and he has stepped up as the man about the house - (cutting/collecting) wood etc. (DL)
I was going to head off on a bike ride by myself. My son told me he wanted to come along with me. We talked about things... he talked, telling me what he found interesting... (BL)
Young People Step Up by 'Serving'
My son often displays 'grown up behaviours' especially if someone needs help (i.e. people with a disability). He demonstrates a desire to volunteer. (BM)
He helps other people and he is always 'stepping up' in his acts of kindness. (DM)
You did the dishes without being asked. Gave your mum a hug out of the blue! (MC)
The Gold
What is crucial here? The dads noticed.
These moments can be subtle. In the meeting point between a young person's readiness and the older person's intuition, there exists an opportunity to help form a healthy young adult.
The seeds of maturity are there in our kids and catching these moments is key.
If you are a mum, a dad, a mentor, a teacher... when did you see a stepping up moment in a young person?
Do you remember a stepping up moment of your own? Do you recall a person who made the space for you to step up?
Feel free to offer your thoughts and memories below.
Bill Jennings http://www.time-space.com.au/
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My 13yo son came into the office with me before I dropped him off as school. He was waiting patiently when my boss entered and I introduced them. My son promptly stood up and extended his hand to say hello. It was a very proud moment for me as his mum and it showed how mature he was becoming.
ReplyDeleteThanks Jo... classic example of how 'the little things matter'. Old fashioned manners are so impressive and our kids rising to the occasion can fuel our pride. Extending our metaphor for this discussion, I love how you say within your comment that your son 'stood up'. Thanks for sharing your 'stepping up' moment.
ReplyDeleteMy 14 year old made me a cup of tea as I was getting up last week. He noticed that I often start the day with a cup of green tea and made it. So nice to have him actually do something for me, instead of the other way around.
ReplyDeleteNice one 'Anonymous'. These are the signs of adulthood being formed! When young people can show that they are thinking of 'the other' (especially their mum or dad), then they are moving from that very egocentric child world into the places that will help them become a great adult. And, Wow, just quietly - how good would it be to score a cuppa in the morning. I am showing this comment to my two teenagers! Thanks for participating.
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