Reflection: Love Heals

Related Reading:
Love Heals
A Growing Concern 
​The Psychological War
Make Good Choices 
Love or Hate? 

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As I close my eyes and drift away to a land where there is love, health, peace, and blessings. I wanted to take the time to think and reflect.

    The truth is: This past week or so, I have been thinking about teen experimentation, drug abuses, the conversations surrounding the legalization of Marijuana / weed, the dangers of street drugs, perceptions, and consequences for teen or adolescent use. We also heard the conversation at the National Level with President Trump's speech. As mentioned in my previous thoughts there are interventions, supports available, so that experimentations do not lead to long-term uses. As I wrote feeling loved, the sense for continued validation through an experimental phase is absolutely necessary. Sometimes you will find that teens are more likely to open up to a trusting adult rather than trusted professionals. Parents, caregivers or  legal guardians must understand that conversations might be difficult, but remind yourself that you are only human as well, and doing the best you can. Having open communication, and keeping the communication lines open is essential. The fact that the teen / adolescent chose to talk with you, shows  that the child chose you. Parents, caregivers, or legal guardians might not have the professional tools, but this is also an opportunity to read, learn, and become informed about the topics, so conversation points also become points to educate. Remember that every teen is different, and the adolescent years will be very different for each. Professional books might only tell you so much, sometimes its about learning through the experiences of others, and also stories. 

     I always remember reading the book Annie John, by Jamaica Kincaid. A little book that describes the essential bonds between mother and daughter. During the teen years we might see a child rebel, this should not mean detachment, although it is part of the natural process. It is intrinsically linked to attachment. Teens are still growing and maturing. They still need attachments from parents, care-givers, guardians, siblings, friends, peers, or educators. We must allow this process to take place, always fill the hollows with loving kindness, self-worth, and validation. Kincaid's book definitely exemplifies this, or as the New York Times reviews, "prophetic power".

My thoughts to share with love & kindness! :)

Notes: These thoughts were originally hand-written on March 23rd, 2018.
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