Do Hard Things!
Did you know that prior to 1941 there was no such thing as a “teenager”? I knew that things had changed in recent years but I didn’t realize it was that recent in our history.
Prior to 1941 you were either a child or an adult. There was no in between and no such thing as a teenager. Young girls were often married, running a household at the age of 14 or 15. Young men had a responsibility to the family. These young people had significant roles in society. In today’s world, young people are considered consumers and little else.
Our youth have been trying to find themselves and unfortunately what most young men and women find is that their lives don’t count for much, they aren’t taken seriously at home or in our communities. It is little wonder the suicide rate amoung young people is as high as it is today.
As homeschoolers we have a golden opportunity to help guide the young people in our lives, without the distractions of a high-pressure peer group or the influence of those who don’t hold our families belief structure.
I stumbled upon a new book written by 19-year-old twins, Alex and Brett Harris. The book is called, “Do Hard Things: A Teenage Rebellion Against Low Expectations.” These young men are an inspiration to young people and parents alike.
Most people don’t expect you to understand what we’re going to tell you in this book. And even if you understand, they don’t expect you to care. And even if you care, they don’t expect you to do anything about it. And even if you do something about it, they don’t expect it to last. We do. – Alex and Brett
I am so excited about finding this book, which says what I’ve been saying for years, only much better. I firmly believe that our children will meet our expectation, no matter how low or how high we set the bar, because they see themselves through our eyes.
My son and I are reading it together on our Kindle and we are both enjoying the book. It’s light reading, entertaining and straightforward. I even ordered an additional copy for our 14-year-old niece who seems at odds with her life, as many teens are.
I’ve encouraged many parents with struggling teens to get their children involved in community service projects, summer jobs or internship. There are many ways young people can make a difference in the world around them. The time for them to begin is today.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to encourage someone they love to “Do Hard Things” whether it be a youth or a young adult. I can hardly wait to finish reading it.
Are you reading a good book? Tell us about it.