standUP

standUP ‘Be bold. Be strong. Never give UP.’ Psalm 31:24 * NPC: 2011/004081/08 * 18A Tax Exempt Status (PBO) file no. 930/036/181

“When a brave man takes a stand, the spines of others are often stiffened.” - Billy Graham

It is far too easy to be an arm-chair critic.  From the comfort of your favourite chair, the ease with which we criticise with a “I-know-better” attitude, is often scary. Modern-day social media platforms makes the process of “critically evaluating” something or forming an opinion about specific events is not inherently wrong.  It is often the attitude, coupled with the type of energy that radiates from us whilst ‘evaluating’ that determines the effect on our mind-set and those around us, when we’re sharing our opinion.

Having an opinion is fine. Necessary even.  It makes for a world of differing views, and people championing various causes.  “Variety is the spice of life” they say.  And, in South Africa, the world’s ‘Rainbow Nation’ we need different people to get involved in supporting the more than 100 000 non-profits trying to fill the gaps where the governments’ arms don’t reach.  Sure, we can play the blame-game, spitting the lava of negativity, but who does that serve?  Thomas Carlyle said: “Our grand business is…to do what lies clearly at hand.”  From the facingUP (fUSS) perspective, where we work in schools in diverse communities throughout Southern Africa, and what is ‘at hand’ it is clear:  negativity will not serve our (young) people.  Instead, building the character and confidence of young people (and those that educate them) will lead to hope - a wavering candle burning all too dim. It is time for adults to standUP and help young people grow in belief of their future.     Recent stats in SA indicate that more than 1 million young people have lost both their parents and a further 9 million of grow up without a father.  Who will teach them the ‘basics’ of manners, good behaviour, encourage them, hold them when they’re sad or despondent…teach them the value of love?  We all need to standUP and help where we can.  “Character gives rise to discipline and responsibility. It’s the inward character that enables a person to stand firm. Character is not inherited, nor can it be purchased. It cannot be built instantly, but instead requires years of construction.”-John Maxwell. As adults, our input, feedback, encouragement and ways of disciplining young people can build or break their confidence.  Our example of living a life free of double standards, being true to your word and living a life of integrity will influence young people. Young people need to learn from adults that, character shows itself in my consistency, and gives me the resolve to do what’s important, even when it’s not convenient.  “You can’t get much done in life if you only work on the days when you feel good.”-Jerry West If we as parents and adults are consistent in the application of our ‘rules and regulations’ (without any ‘T’s&C’s apply’ sections) respect will be a natural growth point in our relationships. When you don’t have character within, you won’t have respect without. J.R. Miller once wrote: “The only thing that walks back from the tomb with the mourners and refuses to be buried, is the character of a man…What a man is, survives him. It can never be buried.” Remember: “When a brave man takes a stand, the spines of others are often stiffened.” Invest in the lives of those who will carry the future.

fUSS: Encourage - Support - Celebrate facingUP Support Services: * NPC: 2011/004081/08 * 18A Tax Exempt Status (PBO) file no. 930/036/181 PO BOX 14, HOWARD PLACE, 7450 Fax:  +27 (0)86 762 5024 Directors: Dr. SH Walsh, Mr. IS Smith, Mr. E Lombard www.facingupsa.org  /  www.lostandfoundnow.org