Life Lessons From A Teen Friend

Earlier this week I needed to get 500 goody bags filled with candies and stickers for church kids to hand out at our balloon rally parade.  Liz, the daughter of two very close friends, offered to help me out.  As we worked on filling the bags, we discussed all sorts of things.  Liz just finished eighth grade and did exceptionally well.  She has a heart for others and is a very special young woman.

When we finished filling the bags, with the help of a couple of other people, Liz and I went out for lunch.  I was really impressed with Liz's thoughts on life and asked her what advice she would give to other young teens regarding life, based on lessons she's learned.  Here is what Liz had to say...

#7. Save your money.  
When you receive money for your birthday, for babysitting, or mowing someone's yard, save at least 20% of it.  Open up a savings account and start saving.  Later, when you really really want or need something, you're prepared.  It's not right to assume that mom and dad will always pay for everything.


#6. Don't judge people on first appearance.  
It's easy to quickly make up your mind about someone when you first meet them, but sometimes we need to give a person a second or third chance.  I met someone whom I thought I would totally dislike--he is now one of my best friends.  




#5. Take a stand against bullying.  When I hear someone harassing another person, I try to talk to the person who's doing the bullying.  I challenge him/her to think of what the other person is experiencing and ask if that's how they want to feel.  I'm also realizing that kids who bully are kids who are hurting in some way and they just express through bullying.



#4. Have patience in waiting.  Don't be in a rush to get the latest gadget.  Don't blow up at your parents if they won't buy you everything you think you need.  Sometimes by waiting, you'll receive something that's better than what you first wanted!  This is especially true with technology stuff.



#3. Don't quit something you've started.  Whether it's a sport, a musical instrument, a hobby, don't quit.  By quitting, you'll never know what the end result could've been.  You'll also miss out on a sense of accomplishment.


#2. Stick up for your beliefs.  As you live your life according to what you believe, kids will pick on you.  But don't get defensive or compromise your beliefs.  In time, those around you will respect you and may even eventually share your beliefs.



#1. Follow the golden rule.  I know it's basic, but we all need to live by the golden rule...do unto others what you would have them do unto you.  We need to put the needs of others first and have compassion for others.


Liz may only be 13 (well soon to be 14 next month!), but I believe her words of wisdom apply to people of all ages, all walks of life.  Thanks Liz.