Open Up And Pay Attention

A year ago I started working at a treatment facility for delinquent juveniles. I took this job simply because of my desire to help people, so I thought this would be a great place to do that. The job was a great reminder for two very important lessons in my life, both of which I knew, but needed to be reminded about.

The first lesson that I was reminded of was simple. I can’t save everyone and most certainly can’t save the world. I took the job only because of my desire to help people and here was a great opportunity to help youth that obviously needed it. I chose the facility I did because of it’s amazing track record. Having one of the highest success rates in the nation, I was excited to get started. It didn’t take long for me to be abruptly reminded that even the best chances aren’t any where near enough to save the world.

At our facility, we have a success rate of 3 out of 10 youth who will return to society and not re-offend. That means that only 3 youth who get incarcerated in our facility will not get locked up again, and typically those who do, the other 7, do so within six months of being released. This is one of the best rates in the nation, which doesn’t say much for everyone else.

Regardless of our rate, here is the point. No matter how much I do or how hard I try, I will never be able to save the world. It was a great reminder that I need to do my best and touch as many people as possible and simply hope that it will be enough to make a difference in the world. At best, I will be happy if I completely change the lives of five people in my lifetime. I have already touched thousands upon thousands of people, but realize that I can only really help a hand full in my life. I must remember to open up and do my part and allow the dice to fall where they may.

The second lesson I was reminded of was also very simple. The lesson was that everyone and every thing is a teacher. I am sorry to say that I have probably learned more from this young boys than they have learned from me. Everyday they teach me more and more about the nature of people. Of the struggles, the desires, the habits, the environments, and much more that most people deal with on a daily basis.

Of course most of these boys are dealing with things at extremes that most of us will never have to deal with, however, they are still daily struggles that most people encounter. Some of these struggles being addictions, be it love, money, drugs for some, success, and acceptance. It has greatly helped me to deal with some of my own issues as well as help others with theirs.

So what does this have to do with you? This should also be a reminder to you to open up and pay attention and learn to let every aspect of your life to give you a lesson. To be your teacher. Even those people you don’t like or might even hate, have something to teach you, if you will only open up and let them. If criminals have lessons to offer me, there is no reason why you can’t learn yourself from those around you. So open up, pay attention, and receive the lessons that you need in order to live the life of your dreams and to unleash your full potential.

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