"All children are gems, full of precious potential. There is hope in every child since life itself is full of hope. Should the hopes of children be stifled or broken, that would be our responsibility as adults." - Daisaku Ikeda
As I speak to local high school students, it is obvious that their wishes and concerns are a microcosm of our greater society. For the most part, they want to build a comfortable, creative life for themselves and contribute to the happiness of others. They also struggle mightily with depression, fear and anxiety. As parents, grandparents and adults, I believe we have a moral responsibility -- an imperative -- to support each of these young people in any way possible.
Ikeda has also said, "When adults are ailing and their vision is clouded, children will suffer. Let us wipe the tears of sorrow from the face of each child. We must protect children and give them courage, strength and vitality. It is parents who nurture children, the hope of humanity. How noble parents are! What a great mission and responsibility they fulfill."
MVO and I had a young man we have known for several years over for dinner. He expressed many of his concerns and we shared some of the valuable lessons we have learned over the years. We've decided to make this type of activity a regular part of our life. After all, when it comes to the children of the world, we are all parents.
I hope we can each look for ways to be an emotional safety net for these wonderful future leaders of the world. Let's give them hope. Let's let them know that someone cares about them. Let's not let even a single young person fall by the wayside. For us adults, they are the gift that keeps on giving.