Teenagers Need Mentors Too

Teenagers Need Mentors Too

Do not judge others, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn others, or it will all come back against you.

I was a bit of a rebellious teenager. I loved my family and had faith in God but often sought the attention of my peers who were engaging in unhealthy activities like partying. When most people wouldn’t bother with teenagers, Joyce, an older woman and mother at my church, was different. She always made sure to greet me warmly and let me know that she cared. She was kind and loving, even when I wasn’t living the way I knew I should have been. Even now, I can see her smiling face, void of judgment, as I’d enter our little church. I could sense that she was always happy to see me as she greeted me warmly each week.

At the time, I appreciated Joyce’s welcome but didn’t think too much of it. Today, I think a lot about Joyce and the friendship she showed me as I look at the young people around me. I wonder if I am always drawing in teenagers or if it’s easier to just leave them be. If I’m honest, teenagers can sometimes be intimidating. If they’re moody or have an attitude, it can seem easier to just ignore them. But they need mentors just as much as anyone else does, and befriending them is important.

As my own children grow into the teen years, I see just how necessary it is for them to have mentors who can speak into their lives alongside my husband and me. As parents, we need a supportive network of people whom our kids will listen to. But if we are going to mentor teenagers, we must be willing to not judge or condemn them, even if they make poor choices. We can be honest and offer correction, while also showing kindness just like Joyce did for me.

— Kendra

— Today’s Act of Friendship —

Thank someone who has been a mentor to you and then look for a teenager whom you could come alongside to befriend with encouragement or even as a mentor.