Published in the January 20 – February 2, 2016 issue of Morgan Hill Life
By Yasmine Daneshvar
Yasmine Daneshvar
Youth is a frustrating time in life. It is that period when one is hardly old enough to be “on his own,” yet feels a sense of independence. Youth are attempting to find some sense of identity, which is why they sometimes act and dress so weird.
However, it always makes a youth feel more loved and valuable when the adults around them respect their opinions and actually take them into consideration when making major decisions. I know when my parents consult me when they want to buy or do something important, it makes me feel like I have a purpose in the household other than just being a “child” like my three siblings. Being able to have input in those decisions allows me to mature and take a more active role in my household as well as my community.
Volunteering at different events in Morgan Hill and San Jose has allowed me to experience many different situations in dealing with adults and children. Not only does the approval and appreciation of adults make youth feel valued, but when children look up to you and tell you that they want to be like you also makes you feel like you are valued.
Once, when I was volunteering at a YAC event here in Morgan Hill, I was watching the kids in the daycare while the parents listened to a lecture. As I entertained the kids, the lady supervising watched me. After the event ended, she approached me and asked if I would be willing to babysit her kids. From watching that night, she noticed I coped really well with children and knew how to play with them, what to do if something happens, etc. That made me feel so happy; the fact that a random stranger, who has only known me for three hours at most, trusts me with her three children. She could have chosen someone who was older and more mature than I, yet she chose me. When adults in the community acknowledge youth and make them know their decision is just as important as theirs, the youth likes becoming more involved in their community, knowing that they can actually impact what is going on around them.
Yasmine Daneshvar is a 17-year-old senior at Sobrato High School. She enjoys talking to and meeting new people.
