I spoke at a middle school recently. While many would see a challenge in trying to reach this age group, I saw an opportunity. I just had to figure out how I can keep them engaged without sacrificing the importance and gravity of the message. After being mindful of the audience I appreciated this very universal trait we all have: no matter your age...we all know "real recognizes real". So while I made sure it was fun and engaging, I also was blatantly honest. I did not sugar coat the issue they face. Students everywhere (but especially inner city students) must pass two schools. One school is traditional academia. The other is the School of Hard Knocks. This school is the one where we painfully become aware that life is not fair. It is the school that tells us that we do not all come from the same "starting point" in life. It was this school that I made known is also important. If we don't name it and intentionally meet young people where they are then we will miss the opportunity for them to become real and open up with us. We cannot afford this to happen. They must be emotionally disarmed from fear before we can intellectually arm them for success. Below is a thank you message from one of their hard working guidance counselors. Thank you "Randi" for the honor to speak with your wonderful students!
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