Uncovering the Hidden Wisdom of the Young
Out of the Mouths of Babes: A Testament to Strength
Psalm 8:2 in the Bible's Book of Psalms begins with the profound statement, "Out of the mouths of babes hast Thou ordained strength." This sentiment has been echoed through the years by those who have worked with young people. With 55 years of experience in the sports world and beyond, I have witnessed firsthand the poignant insights that emerge from the young. There were times when I learned more from them than they did from me. It is clear that the wisdom of the young often surpasses that of adults.These moments have stayed with me and taught me valuable life lessons. As I instruct through Acceptance and Commitment Training (ACT), a methodology commonly used by sports psychology professionals, I have learned to be exquisitely present and pay rapt attention. When we do this, we can turn these experiences with youth into learnable moments.
Adults often dismiss the wisdom of young people due to the belief that they lack maturity, experience, and smarts. However, this is an unproductive and bad approach that can disrupt effective working relationships with them. By being open to learning from the pearls of wisdom offered by the young, we can gain a deeper understanding of the world.
Letting Go of Disruptive Thoughts: A Nine-Year-Old's Insight
Language is a powerful asset that sets us apart from other animals, but it is also a double-edged sword. It can provide the wonderous advantages of creativity and problem-solving, but it can also lead to disruptive thoughts that can disrupt our focus and emotional well-being.A clinical client, stricken with fear of the dark and unable to venture out during lightless hours due to watching too many horror movies, was able to separate himself from the unpleasant thoughts associated with darkness. He recognized that these thoughts were random events and not him. By doing so, he was able to venture into the darkness a few days later.
It took him just two sessions to conquer his problem by figuring out the distinction between useful and useless thoughts. This is an awareness that many adults take months to develop, if at all. The wisdom of this nine-year-old is truly remarkable.
A Young Man's Strategy for Self-Criticism: An Eight-Year-Old's Solution
A young man suffering from self-deprecating thoughts and the anger and self-loathing emotions stemming from athletic and other life mistakes came to me. After helping him understand and utilize the same concepts, he came up with a strategy for responding to self-critical thoughts."I'll flick them away," he said with conviction, and that's exactly what he has done since. No longer suffering from the thoughts and emotions that previously handcuffed him, he has found a way to overcome his inner demons.
The wisdom and resilience of this eight-year-old are inspiring. It shows that even at a young age, we have the ability to take control of our thoughts and emotions.
The Portmanteau "Nervited": Navigating Emotions
A former collegiate athlete, now starting her first career job, coined the term "nervited" to describe her mixed emotions. This is an example of a portmanteau, where two separate words are compounded into a new one.She recognized the link between nervousness and excitement, which is common to our human experience. By acknowledging and embracing these emotions, she was able to successfully navigate the challenges of starting a new job.
Understanding the biological cocktail of cortisol and adrenaline that accompanies anticipation can help us turn worry into excitement. By focusing on positive anticipatory thoughts, we can avoid being overwhelmed by discomfort.
Another Nugget of Juvenile Wisdom: Channeling Energy
Sharing the "nervcited" concept with a young man preparing for a big sporting competition, he explained that nervousness and excitement are similar as they both produce energy.If we channel this energy in the right way, it can help us perform better. Just like a released balloon with an untied neck or a powerful rocket headed to a self-determined destination, we have the choice to use this energy to our advantage.
The wisdom of this 12-year-old shows that even at a young age, we can understand the power of our emotions and use them to achieve our goals.
An Unexpected Advantage from a Sixth Grader
A young athlete with a lower-leg injury was faced with frustration and disappointment. However, he was able to identify an advantage to his situation."It's an opportunity to really focus on building my upper-body strength and my hand and arm skills," he enthusiastically stated. Many athletes would have been stuck in self-pity, but this sixth grader showed remarkable resilience and an ability to see the silver lining.
His insight shows that even in the face of adversity, we can find opportunities for growth and development.
Kids Say the Darndest Things: Building Positive Relationships
As the title of this article suggests, young people can say and do the smartest and darndest things. By paying sincere attention to them, we can build positive relationships with them.Author and social media influencer Bryant H. McGill observed that one of the most sincere forms of respect is actually listening to what another has to say. This applies to all people, regardless of their age.
By giving affirmations to our young charges, we can strengthen our connections with them and help them grow. The rewards are mutual.
"John Morris: From Poverty to Giving Back to Kids"
Childhood Struggles
Morris vividly remembers his childhood in Windes. The town's industrial nature led to polluted rivers, and basic amenities like new sports balls were scarce. "We were lucky if we had any kind of old, worn out balls to throw around. We didn't know what a new ball looked like in those days," he shared with a hint of nostalgia. This difficult upbringing shaped his perspective and motivated him to make a difference.His memories of a polluted environment and the lack of resources during his childhood serve as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by many. It is this awareness that has driven him to take action and support initiatives like the Let's Play Ball drive.
Supporting the Let's Play Ball Drive
Morris is actively involved in the annual Let's Play Ball drive, which is sponsored by the Press-Telegram and Daily Breeze in partnership with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Long Beach and the L.A. Harbor. Traditionally, the campaigns were separate, but this year they have been combined.The goal is to provide at least 5,000 balls combined, with 2,500 going to each organization. However, the deadline is approaching quickly, on Friday, Dec. 13. Don Rodriguez, CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Long Beach, estimates that about 1,050 balls have been donated so far. "This ball drive is crucial to the success of our programs," Rodriguez emphasized. "With hundreds of kids participating every day, these balls are the backbone of not only our sports and recreation programs but also for mentoring, mental health and leadership programs."
Call to Action at Boathouse on the Bay
Morris is asking Boathouse customers to bring new, unwrapped sports balls or toys to Boathouse on the Bay, located at 190 Marina Drive, on Tuesday, Dec. 10. Each ball or toy should have a value of $20. In return, customers will receive a free buffet lunch and a heartfelt thank you."We need thousands of toys and balls for kids," Morris said. "The need is so great." His efforts are making a significant impact, and Rodriguez expressed his gratitude. "This is a special thank you to John Morris for spearheading the collection of sports balls during his event on Tuesday," Rodriguez said. "John's commitment to our campaign not only exemplifies a spirit of giving but also ensures that our kids will have what they need to thrive in our sports programs. Together, we are creating a positive impact that extends far beyond the playing field."
Multiple Drop-off Locations
There are several drop-off locations for donations. In the Long Beach area, one can donate at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Long Beach's main office at 3635 Long Beach Blvd., from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Monday-Friday. Big 5 Sporting Goods locations at 4780 Pacific Coast Highway and 5247 Lakewood Blvd. also accept donations during store hours. Phil Trani's Restaurant at 3490 Long Beach Blvd. is open from noon to 11 p.m. on Monday-Saturday. First Bank locations at 4040 Atlantic Ave. and 5195 Lakewood Blvd. are also available. Additionally, Boathouse on the Bay Restaurant at 190 Marine Drive is a drop-off point.In the South Bay, Boys & Girls Clubs of LA Harbor locations such as 1200 S. Cabrillo Ave., 529 S. Gaffey St., 100 W. Fifth St., 1444 W. Q St., 1220 W. 256th St. and 802 W. Gardena Blvd. are accepting donations. Big 5 Sporting Goods locations at 529 S. Gaffey St., 2745 Pacific Coast Highway and 17542 Hawthorne Blvd. in Torrance, and 2515 E. El Segundo Blvd. in El Segundo also accept donations during store hours. First Bank locations at 21503 Hawthorne Blvd. and 1542 W. Redondo Beach Blvd. are available as well.
We are always looking for more drop-off locations, whether it's a sports bar, a restaurant or a retail store. If you are interested in becoming a drop-off location, please email rarchbold@scng.com and chaire@scng.com.
We want to thank you in advance for helping to make a difference in the lives of youngsters during this holiday season and into the new year. Let's Play Ball and make a positive impact together."Descubre las películas que marcan la historia del cine"
Jacques Audiard: El narcomusical y el caos
Hay muchas razones para enamorarse del narcomusical de Jacques Audiard sobre los accidentes de la identidad. Cada error de la película es un detalle que la hace única. La protagonista, Karla Sofía Gascón, es la revelación del año. Brady Corbet construye un artefacto raro que divide al cine.La historia del arquitecto judío emigrado a Estados Unidos, interpretado por Adrien Brody, radia las fisuras del sueño americano. También replanta la idea misma de la imagen cinematográfica.
Esta película es una joya cinematográfica que no puede pasar desapercibida.
Alice Rohrwacher: La quimera
Alice Rohrwacher da sentido a la palabra hecha cuento. Rescata a gente como Pier Paolo Pasolini, Ermanno Olmi o los hermanos Taviani. La historia de dos mujeres en Mumbai es un viaje profundo.Es una cinta sensorial que apunta a lo eterno y al infinito que solo se puede apreciar detrás de los ojos.
Los embichados son como los zombis, terribles y muy parecidos a nosotros.
Demián Rugna: Los embichados
Demián Rugna ofrece una exhibición de terror puro. El género cinematográfico se acerca a la descripción perfecta del mundo peor.Esta película es una pesadilla que se convierte en realidad.
La brutalidad patriarcal y religiosa sigue intacta en este relato.
Sean Baker: Anora
Sean Baker alcanza el punto más alto de su filmografía. Hace una comedia sexual que retrata cruelmente a nuestra sociedad en desmorono.Cada carcajada duele, ya que muestra la realidad de nuestra sociedad.
La obsesión por la belleza y la juventud se somete a un tercer grado.
Mad Max: El origen
Miller continúa su periplo por el mundo en descomposición. Agiganta la leyenda del Loco Max más allá de lo razonable.Es una película gozosamente disfrutable que sigue a la obra maestra 'Furia en la carretera'.
El director crea un mundo lleno de emoción y acción.
Veronika Franz y Severin Fiala: El baño del diablo
Sobre un hecho real de otros tiempos, estos directores componen el más terrorífico de los cuentos. El miedo es el mismo a través del tiempo.La brutalidad patriarcal y religiosa sigue presente en este relato.
El suicidio de las mujeres da pie a un relato turbio y profundo.
Basel Adra, Hamdan Ballal, Yuval Abraham, Rachel Szor: No other land
Aún no estrenado en España, este documental es el del año. Muestra la masacre de Gaza y la limpieza étnica.La caligrafía fracturada y el dolor en cada fotograma son impresionantes.
Este documental es una prueba de la verdad del cine.
Andrew Haigh: El cine de amor
En el último trabajo de Andrew Haigh, el cine de amor se convierte en un momento de gloria.Entre la fantasía y la ficción, el director escenifica el sueño de eternidad.
Este cine es una obra maestra de la pasión y la sensibilidad.
Luca Guadagnino: Rivales
Ver la penúltima película de Luca Guadagnino es una experiencia única. Solo la última secuencia es la mejor del año.Lo anterior es divertido, sexy y desinhibido.
Esta película cambia la forma en que vemos el tenis.
Robert Eggers: Nosferatu
Robert Eggers revisita un clásico para entregar un festín de cine. Lily-Rose Depp es sobresaliente en la piel de una poseída.Este cine es una obra de poesía macabra.
La película transmite una sensación misteriosa y oculta.
Gints Zilbalodis: Flow. Un mundo que salvar
La película de animación del año es letona. La aventura poética es similar a la obra de Hayao Miyazaki.Es un milagro en el mundo del cine.
Esta película es única y memorable.
Osgood Perkins: Longless
Osgood Perkins elabora una lista con Nicolas Cage. La planificación del miedo es perfecta.Nuestro 'sobreactor' se ilumina en esta película.
Es un viaje por el miedo y la ansiedad.
Edward Berger: Cónclave
Elegir papa no es una cuestión banal. Edward Berger demuestra su maestría en la administración de la tensión.La coda final es sublime y memorable.
Este cine es una experiencia intensa.
Mati Diop: Dahomey
La gran revelación del Festival de Berlín es esta película. Es un manifiesto político y una producción sencilla.La vibración de este cine es honda y delicada.
Es un testimonio de la pasión del cineasta.
Denis Villeneuve: Arrakis
Denis Villeneuve lleva el cine popular a un nuevo territorio. Los gusanos gigantes son una amenaza y un desafío.Este cine crea mundos nuevos y fascinantes.
Los desiertos son nuestro mundo en esta película.