Suggested alternatives to a few trite expressions we say to young people:
1. "You are the future of the Church" Try instead: "You are the Young Church. You offer unique gifts and a a bright light. I encourage you to be creative and courageous in how you share these today! Your Baptism was not a guest pass. You are not visitors in mom, dads and Father's Church. This is your Church. It's your responsibility to stake your claim in it. "
2. "You can make a difference." Try instead: "You DO make a difference today. The world is different right this instant because you are here. What you choose to do and not do has consequences even if you are not aware of what they are."
3. "Someday, you're gonna be somebody." Try instead: "You don't have to wait to be remarkable--you already are. If you think you have to wait before you can share your gifts with the world its only because you don't believe they're worth sharing today. You're wrong. And I commit (only say this if you mean it) to walking with you to help you discover and utilize your giftedness."
Wow. I love your enthusiasm. You have a incredible gift.
Hope my kids get to hear you speak in a few years.
I can't wait to see you jump from a chair again.
Posted by: Coby | 02/08/2010 at 02:11 PM
I bet you can't!
Posted by: Roy Petitfils | 02/08/2010 at 09:03 PM