Life Lessons

Life doles out some pretty serious life lessons every now and then. And most likely, none of us with be immune from having to learn the hard way. I think that it humbles us. It makes us take a closer look at what we have and what we have to be thankful for. Our family becomes our center if it wasn't already. Our friends continue to be our balance. And what we do with these lessons set the stage for our future. Even though it might not seem like it at the time, most often 'life lessons' come with a bright and shiny silver lining.

Today I was in the right place at the right time and my eyes were opened to a wonderful program that helps teens when they are dealt a difficult lesson with a challenging road ahead. Teen pregnancy. Something that no parent ever thinks is going to happen to his or her daughter. A parent who is not prepared for the fact that their teenage son is about to be a father. This is a real issue and it affects families all over the world. And thankfully, there are programs in place to offer help and stability. Mentoring. Teaching. And excellent new parent/ child care.

When we walked into the building, I was overcome by the fact that I had never known of a place like this. Because in my life, teen pregnancy was not a reality. Nor was it for any of my close friends. But along the way, many girls who I know and now know well have traveled this road. Some had strong and supportive families. Others did not. As we toured each room, I was overcome by a feeling of warmth and care. The teachers truly loved being there. The children were happy and the new Mom's had a sense of calm about them. The nursery was fully staffed. Two older babies were seated at highchairs having snack. Another was napping. And two others were being held in rocking chairs. It was a whole new world that I knew was available to teenagers in our community, but a place that I really didn't know anything about.

A good friend of mine was with me on the tour. We were both in awe of the huge gift that this program has to offer. They work with new Moms and new Dads. They provide a daycare for the children ranging from birth to 5 years old. Every wall had a gorgeous painted mural, compliments of a local artist. The director was beaming as she described the program to us. Both having been teachers, my friend and I were very impressed with the professional yet loving feel. The director mentioned how diverse their young parents are. Some are straight A students who were high school sports stars and others have struggled growing up in low income households. Her point was that it doesn't matter what family kids come from. Teen pregnancy happens and it can happen to any family. It made me realize that as a Mom of two small children, it is going to be our job (my husband and mine) to keep our lines of communication wide open always. Especially in their teenage years.

To be honest, as we were leaving the facility, I had a moment. A moment of gratitude that this was not a path that I had to travel. But also a moment of true respect for each of these teen parents who have committed themselves to becoming the best that they can be for their child. Their level of responsibility at this point in their life is very admirable. I thanked the director for the tour. For opening my eyes to such a dedicated and compassionate learning environment. We asked her if they are ever in need of supplies and/or gently used items such as clothing, strollers, swings, etc. and she said yes, always. For any of you local readers, if you have anything that you'd like to donate please let me know. This program is making a huge difference in our community.