30 Days of Gratitude – Day 9:
Express gratitude to a teen who consistently tries to make good choices.

From 2000–2003 I had the privilege of teaching music to elementary, junior high, and senior high students in the Detroit area. It was during those years that I became more aware of the tough choices teens have to make on a daily basis. I was known by a few of them for frequently asking two questions: 1) Are you being good? 2) Are you making good choices?

When they answered no to either of those questions, we would address the problem and talk it through so I could provide resources and encourage them to make a different choice the next time. And when they answered yes, I was intentional about verbally applauding their right choices. Teens get enough negativity from their peers—and from themselves.

Be a safe place for the teens in your life. Tell them the truth, but be sure to encourage them and thank them for consistently trying to make good choices! It matters.

Take time to send a card to the teen you selected to recognize today.