Parental Support

The Hunger Games  Series tells the story of Katniss Everdeens' struggle to overcome the turmoil around her and within herself to become the woman she was meant to be.  While this story is applicable of every person, I believe it to be especially representative of members of Generation Z.  Referring to those born after 1995, Gen Z encompasses those who are college age or younger. This generation has massive potential, but they have one primary challenge holding them back: fear.  Gen Z is terrified. If I had to pick one person who I believe best exemplifies this generation it would be the young Greta Thunberg.  Greta best represents this generation not because of her political beliefs, not because of her attitude, and certainly not because of the way in which she presents her convictions, Greta represents this generation because of her motivation.  If you listen closely to what she is truly communicating, you will hear the voice of a talented young girl who...

My mother once declared, in a matter-of-fact voice, that there were days during my pre-teen and teenage years when she was certain that portions of my brain had drained out of my ears and onto my pillow during the night while I slept.  Many parents express similar feelings during the adolescent years of their children.  Some parents wonder if their children are the only ones who have brainless moments and begin to question whether they have done something wrong in their parenting.   During a child's adolescent years, the brain is changing and becoming that of an adult's brain.  In fact, in most respects, the teenage brain is fully developed.  However, two primary factors create the whirlwind of emotions and impulsiveness that characterize the teenage years: (1) the pre-frontal cortex & (2) lack of experience.  The pre-frontal cortex is the last part of the brain to develop and doesn't fully develop until around 23 years old.  This portion...

As I get older, it seems that every year passes faster than the year before.   I’m told there are twenty-four hours in a day, yet many days I feel that someone is stealing some of mine.   As I look around, it appears I’m not the only one who is experiencing a constant battle with the clock.   The reality is that our lives are busy.   We all have numerous responsibilities and commitments that pull us in many different directions.   No wonder so many of us are tired, stressed, and overworked.   Certainly, using the time God has given us in a productive way is a worthwhile endeavor.   Yet, if we are not careful, we can find ourselves in chains, slaves to the taskmaster that is time.               Many, if not most, of the responsibilities you and I have are beneficial pursuits that do good.   Yet, if these pursuits lead us to be enslaved to time, that which was once good can cease to be ...