After speaking at a leadership conference, I left a hotel in downtown Atlanta to look for a good place to eat. A large crowd of young demonstrators poured into the streets. They held signs with powerful messages such as “Stand Up to Racism,” “Black...
The pastor of a small church encouraged his congregation to reach out to young people and make them feel welcome. “Our youth are important. We need you,” he insisted. “You are our future.” Everyone applauded. Unfortunately, no young people were in the audience to hear...
I recently asked a group of adults to describe important qualities they believed young people look for in a role model. They said a strong role model is fun and has a great sense of humor. Someone who understands what it’s like to be a kid. Someone who wants to...
Several years ago, I guided high school seniors through collaborative goal-setting exercises. An 18-year-old boy barked questions at me from across the classroom as I assisted a group of girls who were working on a project. “What should I do next?” he shouted. I...
Inspiration is creatively expressed through the witness of those who celebrate life with authentic enthusiasm and confidence. Lynda Coleman’s Facebook fan page, Art from the Heart, invites others to experience joy and passion for living. She is an artist from Austin,...
