"We are only as happy as our relationships are happy."
Usually our teens give thoughtful insight to their interpretation of the weekly quote. This week we saw a more real-time application and learning process.
Two teens are dating. They sit together at lunch, talk on the phone, and sit together for their after-school snack of popcorn and nachos... but something is amiss.
They aren't talking. They sit and look at one another-- one talks, the other hears, but doesn't listen. The situation quickly becomes frustrating.
"Communicate what you need from her. Communicate what you need from him. Talk to each other. How can your boyfriend, girlfriend, friend, parent-- or anyone for that matter, understand what you need if you don't make that known. Communicate. You'll be much happier."
The teens attempted this insightful new philosophy... and this what they had to say about it.
"You know, I tried what we talked about with that quote-- and it worked. It's way better when we understand each other."
"My relationship with my mom is getting much better. I'm glad we can talk and listen to each other. It's much better than before."
This was a powerful quote with real world applications. The teens took it upon themselves to engage in discovery learning. They tried a new approach to solve a problem. It was an enriching experience with growth for all.
Every teen admitted they had relationships that need work.It took admitting a problem existed to solve it.
We learned by observing, as well. We watched them engage in new, empathetic behaviors with positive results. We couldn't be more proud!
