In reply to the young people voicing their opinions, I would like to say well done. The media is a machine that, in principle and of course in my opinion, thrives on the misfortunes of young people.
We need to promote the positive achievements of young people, and by so, give hope and reason for those having troubled lives, an opportunity to turn around their lives. In addition it can be argued that our young people of today are a product of society, and perhaps it is time for many adults to look deep into their own actions and contributions that has created a society in which young people are attempting to practice good will, but never given credit for their achievements.
I've spent a great deal of my life working with young people, and the best experiences have been working with young men in custody. Public perception gives rise to many negative arguments about the young people of today. Yes, these guys have done wrong and have received punishment, the loss of liberty. A majority have just been caught up with the wrong people at a very impressionable time in their lives. Either way there are excellent professionals working with these young men to reflect on their actions, and ultimately there to help them turn their life around.
Everyone has an opinion, and there are many who speak their mind without justification and knowledge of the problems young people of today are confronted with in their life. It's easy to criticise, but it's harder to give constructive criticism, advice and guidance to help young people change their lives.
When was the last time you actually listened to a young person? Is it because you don't value their opinion? Or is it easier to walk away and not acknowledge what they have to say. Perhaps it's because, like many, you stereo type young people.
Every one has a story to tell, and this site is an opportunity for young people to be heard, their stories are real, their emotions and feelings reflect their life. They are the voice of young people, who by engaging in writing are making a commitment to all of those who are too quick to condemn, that there is hope, a future and a place for young people to find change in their life.
What do we need to do? Well let's start listening first, being young can be a frightening time if you are excluded from society, or for whatever reason. They say that giving is better than receiving, so give the next young person a precious gift, your time, pass on the wisdom of your life. It's never too late to learn, and it's never too late to change.
This web site is a chance for you to read, for you to learn and for you to understand the voice of young people.
A message to all the young people that send in their work, well done, you've turned the corner, and are on the journey to change, safe journey, and there are people around you that do listen, they are all MAD, Make a Difference
Good Luck, to all the young people out there, you are our future, you can create a society that is one that we all can be proud of, it will not be easy, but believe in your selves and do right by others.
David Burns – PEOPLE Charity