: I was 21 once.
I remember the aunties and uncles who told me what to do, what not to do, what to stop doing. But very few paused to show me who I could become.
It’s easy to point out what young people are getting wrong. It costs us nothing to criticize. But how often do we stop (really stop) to affirm what they’re getting right? To call out the gold we see forming in them?
Our generation has a chance to close that gap.
Not policing. Propelling.
Not stumbling blocks. Springboards.
We get one life. Just one.
And even a small degree of change.. one word spoken at the right moment, one young person who felt seen instead of scrutinized.
Something is shifting. A revival is coming, and it will move through people who were believed in before they believed in themselves.
So stay ready. Stay present.
Stay kind to the generation watching you.
“Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming.” Matthew 24:42 NKJV
Reflecting on my own journey through my early twenties, I deeply resonated with the message of empowering rather than policing young people. I can recall countless moments when adults around me focused on what they thought I was doing wrong instead of encouraging who I could become. This experience, unfortunately, is all too common and often leaves young people feeling scrutinized rather than supported. The power of encouragement cannot be overstated. Even a single word spoken at the right moment can uplift a young person’s spirit and inspire them to pursue their potential. When we choose to call out the good—the "gold" forming within them—we nurture self-belief and resilience. My personal experience showed me that when someone truly believed in me before I believed in myself, it ignited a revival of confidence that shifted my entire outlook on life. Moreover, using kindness as a tool to propel rather than police helps create an environment where young people feel valued and seen. Instead of erecting stumbling blocks, imagine providing springboards—opportunities to leap forward knowing they have support behind them. This approach fosters creativity, courage, and growth that lasts a lifetime. Incorporating the image message that reminds us to remember who we are even when standing on the stars echoes a fundamental truth: Our youth is a journey, not just a destination. Reminding younger selves to embrace their evolving identity with love and acceptance is crucial. So, to anyone mentoring or influencing younger generations—stay ready, stay present, and above all, be kind. The revival and shift we long for starts when we honor young people by seeing their value and potential, encouraging them to become their best selves. This isn’t just about positive words; it’s about creating lasting impact through genuine belief and support.
