The Young and the "Tempted"

It is commonly said, "O to be young again."

When we think of being young, what comes to mind? Is it the young look? How about our young bodies in which we could eat or do anything in, or maybe it's just the fact that we didn't have any responsibilities? In reality, how hard was it really to be a teenager? It always seemed as if you were targeted cause you were young and naive. As teenagers we struggled through the teen-life, and we all know its not that easy.

Now that my brothers, Vuni and Sione, are in their teens, I watch them as they go through their everyday life and it only feels like yesterday I was in their shoes. Everyday is something, whether it'd be practice or a school activity. With all the events and activities they participate in you can only imagine the confrontations they may have. I can recall when I was in situations where I had to think, "what would my mom say/think of this?" I remember my mom always telling me if I was in a situation and had to think that phrase, it's more than likely something I'm not supposed to be doing. As we send our youth out into the world, we pray that they always remember the things that we taught them and hope they make the best decisions.

The other day, Vuni came across a situation. You could only feel his hardship and see in him that something was going on. I would look at him and pray that everything he is going through, he is OK. Teenagers don't talk about their problems with their parents it's just in their hormones not to. Well Vuni had been put in a predicament where if he didn't talk to our mom, she was going to find out one way or another. So he felt that it was better she heard it from him, than from someone else. It takes courage to step up and do the right thing especially when you feel like you need to fit in, or just because everyone else is doing it. It takes even more courage to confront and be honest with your parents. Vuni initially didn't make the right decision, but found courage and talked to my mom. Although we wanted to be upset and angry, the fact that my brother is learning and growing just like we all do, we know it isn't easy living the life of a teen. We teach them each and every day and are proud of them for fighting through their trials. We watch them make mistake after mistake and see how they learn and grow from each one. They are truly extraordinary spirits and good or bad, its a blessing to share these moments with them.

Growing with my brothers, I await the moments I will be able to share with my children and hope that they can look to me for guidance. Our youth are the future and the sky is the limit. They deserve every chance and opportunity that is out there and need parents to lead and guide them in the right path. I wish nothing but the best for our youth! I pray that as you all go through your high school and college years, you only look back and say I MADE IT! There is no one else who controls your future but YOU. The doors are there for you waiting to be opened. Our Father in Heaven is always with you and watching over you. Respect yourself, your family, and the people around you and always remember, there is someone ALWAYS watching.

Love, Utu