Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

By Nancy Stoops

Soon they will be running our country and have children of their own.  Soon they will be telling their children all the things we told them.  I have had the honor of working with thousands of kids and teens of this generation and I’m here to tell you that they are amazing.  Now keep in mind there is good and bad in every generation but I think we have misjudged this generation.  Yes some of them have dabbled with drugs and alcohol and some are even afraid to grow up.  On the other hand many of them are working on making this world a better place.  The problem is we more often hear the stories about how they are shooting their classmates verses the youths that are doing things of heroic measures.

Just as we did they are crying out to be accepted and valued.  We shouldn’t put a label of lazy or frightened on this batch of youth because then they might become just that.  Instead we need to guide them and encourage them to grow into who God intends them to be.  This generation is very gifted in so many ways.  They care about making our world a better place but are frustrated because they don’t know where to begin because we do have many problems.  I see many future psychotherapists, environmentalists,

lobbyists, songwriters, singers, and attorneys.   I have had youth that are interested in pursuing careers in the mental health field come and observe my support groups.  I have had some even help me with my groups.  Mentoring can make a huge difference in a young person’s life.  Mentoring can offer hope and guidance.

Please don’t give up our or youth because that means giving up on our world.  Help guide and encourage them to grow into adults that they can be proud of them.  Teach them to not give up on themselves because each of them can make a difference!!!!!!!

This article was written by Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T.  Nancy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.  She has a private practice in Diamond Bar and is currently accepting new clients; she is also a motivational speaker who can inspire your employees or group members.  Nancy runs free family support groups, a group on loss for seniors, and groups on how to manage anger.    For more information about any of these services feel free to contact her at (909) 229-0727.  You may e-mail Nancy at nancystoops@verizon.net. You may purchase Nancy’s books Live Heal and Grow and Midnight the Therapy Dog at Amazon.com.