As the mentors led the students in this weeks art project, the students were given the task to draw a super hero. The powers they could possess were love, peace. kindness, caring, repect. responsibility, fairness. etc. The super hero uses these powers to help in the commiunity. They should have a side kick, someone to work with "as saving the world is not an easy task."

Somila's poster is interesting. When we first started talking about it, she was saying that she drew Michael because he was a good dancer and singer. On the side of her poster, which is hard to see, she listed all these virtues and qualities: peace, faithfulness, self-control. joy and kindness. (in English!). I asked her about the words, "why were they there, what did they mean to her?" She explained that she thought Michael was like this and she admired that about him. I asked her if that is how she would like to be, she said that she did not think it was possible for her to be like that. 

Debriefing with the mentors after this activity, it was evident that most of these students do not seem to have a grounded sense in what they can be and who they want to be - not in terms of a job or a career, but as humans - caring compassionate humans. That conflicts with the pressure they feel to be strong and powerful, beautiful and rich. 

I feel so strongly that if there is something we can do to support, affirm, encourage, direct and guide others in the important work of developing the foundations of humanity in young people, than that must be done. Having worked with young people for the past 20 years has shown me how important it is for us to engage in creating space for these children to explore and reflect, create and dream, imagine and hope. I believe that God is so present in those moments. It gives space and time in a society that worships busy-ness and activity.