The courage to stand up for change
By Bethany Walker
Many adolescents in today’s society are afraid to take action, in fear that they will not see change within their communities and schools. I am here to argue that this statement is not the case. One person cannot change the world alone, but, rather, a group can make a more significant difference.
Since we are the future generation, we have to learn to stand up for change. It takes one person to start something big and I believe the teens of Ottawa can make a huge difference within our families, schools, and communities.
I attend a public school. Even though the majority of students are non-Christian, the school still makes it a goal to do good for the community. When I say the school I do not mean the teachers, the student body are the ones doing the organizing and collecting for every project they take on. Such as: right now they are collecting clothing for the Snowsuit Fund. It is not a difficult fundraiser for teens to put on. I, for one, know that my school currently has boxes, scattered throughout the halls, of donations to the charity.
Many teenage Christians hear about people doing miraculous things that they themselves cannot do, which shakes their faith and lowers self-confidence.
However, God blessed all of us with different talents. Fundraising isn’t in the interest of all teenagers, that I understand. There are many other ways to contribute to God’s kingdom that are better suited to each person’s interests.
I have a friend, she saw the spiritual poverty in her school and wanted to make a difference. She went to the principal and asked to open a prayer club. The approval was not easy, but eventually she got it. It stirred up quite a commotion at her school, but despite this she continued and was able to teach some of her school friends about Christ.
Personally, I am a very shy person, but I have still found ways to let the love of God be known in my daily life. Many teenage Christians hear about people doing miraculous things that they themselves cannot do, which shakes their faith and lowers self-confidence. However, sometimes it’s little things that make a huge difference: Sit with that kid who is always alone at lunch. They might be more interesting than they appear. It might just make their day that you’ve chosen to talk to them. Be kind to others, even if they persecute you. Pass out cookies to your friends or remind them how much you appreciate them.
The way a teenager can make a huge difference in their community is just to be open.
The love of God can be shown in so many different ways and people will see it. The world notices different, and we, as Christians, are called to be different. If you show random acts of kindness, it will be noticed. You never know, it could lead someone to Christ.
Above all else, the way a teenager can make a huge difference in their community is just to be open. Listen to what God has to say. He wants to use each one of us in amazing ways we can’t even imagine—all we have to do is say “yes” and He will put us to work to contribute to His kingdom.
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