Ms. Marissa, Youth Programs Director

As Eliana walked towards the pantry sink at Kids Club, I greeted her and asked, “Hey, how was your day today?” “It was ok,” she responded, “school is confusing.” I asked her to tell me more. She shared that paying attention is challenging because she’s sleepy; she’s sleepy because her little sister often wakes up scared in the middle of the night and climbs into Eliana’s bed, keeping her awake.

“It sounds like you need help figuring out how to love your sister while still getting the rest you need to do well in school. Have you talked to your dad?” I asked. “No,” she said, “I don’t know what to say… that just feels really hard.” We spent the next few minutes practicing ways she could communicate her needs to her dad. Before she ran off to play I asked, “Do you think you can be courageous and have this conversation with him tonight, even though you don’t know how he will respond?” She took a deep breath and said, “I think I can.”

After some days passed I followed up with Eliana regarding her conversation with her father. She paused, then replied, “I haven’t asked him yet.” I was a bit dismayed, but I continued to encourage her, reminding her that courage helps us confront our fears.

Again, more time passed. I followed up, “Eliana, have you talked to your dad?” She smiled and said, “Yes. And you know what? My dad is a really easy person to talk to.” Hooray! It was exciting to see her courageous effort coming to fruition, strengthening the communication with her dad in the process.

This month we are reminding students like Eliana that they can confront fears, engage in difficult conversations, and share their stories with those around them. When students operate out of a place of worthiness, courage most certainly will follow. Join Eliana in practicing courage in relationships this month as we continue to build courageous connections with one another!