Attn Teens: embracing what makes you different, is what gets you accepted!

Peter and I spoke to a high school youth group last month about why it's important to be kind.  We talked about how everyone is different but that we also all share many of the same wants, needs, and desires.  Some of our differences, such as those of people living with craniofacial syndromes, are more obvious on the outside.  But, many of our differences aren't so obvious.  Seen or unseen, we are all, in fact, unique from one another.  We also all have a universal desire to be treated with kindness. Furthermore, we all possess the POWER to choose kindness every day in every aspect of our lives. Something as simple as making eye contact and smiling at a fellow student in the hallway can potentially change the course of their day for the better.

St. Joseph Catholic Church - Libertyville, IL

Peter's precept, "Don't be afraid to be friends with someone who looks different" was further emphasized when, to the surprise of his unknowing audience, he removed his prosthetic ear! The courage it took for Peter to do that is something they will not likely forget.  Feedback from the teens was that the message meant more coming from someone like Peter. 

I considered it a huge win that I talked Peter into doing that in front of a completely new group of peers. I want him to learn how the power of embracing what makes you different can also make it easier for you to be accepted.  High schoolers, and Peter is no different, largely want to go through their day unnoticed and simply blend in with the crowd.  To do something that makes one stand out is often too much of a social risk.  While I'm not encouraging extreme acts that will get one noticed, I'm also not encouraging teens to hide what makes them unique. Why be afraid of what makes you different, thus making you a target?  Bullies are often insecure about themselves, which is why they pick on kids who they see as weak. Take their power away by being proud of yourself, by being proud of what makes you stand out, and by being surrounded by friends and teachers that have your back!