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Role Models

“You can't do a fine thing without having seen fine examples.” - William Morris Hunt

I've been thinking about the need for the Dream Keepers and other young people to have role models. When we meet someone who has done what we want to do, we see that our dreams are possible. When that person has overcome obstacles to reach a dream, we are encouraged to press on. It's especially important for teens who live in challenging situations to see people who have experienced difficulty and still succeeded. It empowers them to believe in themselves and their own ability to move forward.

Last night I took three of the Dream Keepers to the first Summer Reading Circle meeting. This week's book was, I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou. (Talk about a role model!) Afterwards, we had ice cream and cookies at my house. I showed them the Web site and the blog. One of the young woman said, "Pastor Rochelle, we're going to be famous!"

I'd love nothing more. Wouldn't it be something if these young women and men could be famous role models for other teens?I'm inspired by their interest in reading, their willingness to put their lives on paper and share it with me and other people, and their ability to engage with popular culture. They push me to engage with my own world--and theirs. I'd love for them and their writing to inspire other young people to vision a wild and amazing life for themselves.

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