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ABOUT
THE PROJECT
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MISSION & WHY.
As a school counselor, child life specialist, support group facilitator, mental health, and all-around advocate/supporter of kids for forty years, I am an avid listener to young people's stories--the hard stories. I am not afraid to listen because I always notice there is strength. That's where we make a plan forward.
The teen stories on this website are real and about getting through something challenging, difficult, painful, terrifying, sad, or tragic. They are hard things and unique to each individual. Within each story, there are always solutions– but sometimes they may be hard to see at first.
In this space, I hear,
“I GIVE UP!”
“I FAILED!”
“I QUIT!”
“I CAN’T DO THIS!”
“I CAN’T GO ON!”
And then, once those statements are said out loud, I begin to hear…
“MAYBE I can do something!”
“MAYBE I can try again!”
“MAYBE I’m ok!”
Which soon becomes…
“Hey, I THINK I can do something!”
“I THINK I can try again!”
“I THINK I’m ok!”
Which finally becomes…
“I WILL DO SOMETHING!”
“I WILL TRY AGAIN!”
“I AM OK!”
I am inspired every day to witness the resiliency of young people like you. The space between hopelessness and hope can be enormous- at least in the beginning.
And then something amazing happens--hope happens! You begin to think, "What would this look like if it all worked out?"
It usually begins with one small action forward, permission to see it working out, and small steps that can help it to be a little bit better.
In our world of overwhelming challenges for teens; where it may seem you are all struggling--I see you getting through hard things and finding your way, making plans, and moving forward with power and purpose.
These stories can inspire others. What if teens could share their stories to encourage and inspire other teens? What if it could help another teen to find the courage to keep going?
This space is for teens like you to share how you are finding your way every day. I am listening–and other people are too.
YOU ARE NEVER ALONE.
YOU CAN DO HARD THINGS.
WHEN YOU'RE READY, YOU CAN INSPIRE OTHERS, TOO.
AVAILABLE NOW!
Dear Teen:
This is a CAN DO book. Life Tools and strategies are shown through the stories of real-life teens who have overcome challenges and uncovered their strength to reach their goals. Learn how to apply these Life Tools to your life and make plans that will move you forward successfully.
Take charge of what is in your control. Start with small actions to move forward. Begin today creating the life you want.
There are always possibilities and solutions. You are never alone. You've got this.
YOU CAN DO HARD THINGS!
