Natural mentors

One of my major teachings is to allow adults to realise their worth to young people already in their personal lives.

Most adults have a fixed belief that they have to go out to young people they do not know in order to help, yet I am always able to show these adults they do know people who (often unknown to the adult) regard them as vital figures in their lives – Natural Mentors. My personal experience indicates these young people from all backgrounds would otherwise be likely to develop problems later, if they do not create a sustained relationship with a trusted adult.

The adults, once aware of their value, simply behave in ways to give the relationship more strength. It does not cost anything and often does not take up more time than within their usual contact. This simple factor, when actively and widely taught, has the power to change the lives of thousands.

Self Help

Because the focus is upon one creative interest chosen by the young person, parents and family friends grasp the idea and immediately respond enough to act. I estimate that for each young person who needs the support of Creative Inspirations, the message we are taking alongside this work is allowing a further thirty to be supported in this self-help way (a conservative figure).

I find these aspects delightful and readily accepted.

Focused Questions

One more human phenomenon I will mention is that adults asked a general question around the support of a young person, do not respond. Adults asked specifically if they will share time with a youngster over a creative interest the adult loves, respond immediately and positively.

Creative Focus

Everyone around a young person relates to the tangible and single interest. Everyone’s mind is on the creativity, not each other’s personalities. The young person becomes self-motivated from the heart, then everything else falls into place. Young people learn avidly almost without realising they are learning.

To see how this works in practise, have a look at Sarah’s story.