Your cart is currently empty!
#13ReasonsYouBelong: A Message I Hope You Share Across Your Campus
I often think about how different life could have been for Mia if she had just made it to college. She would have discovered that turning 18 isn’t the end of the road; rather, it’s a chance to redefine herself outside the confines of her past traumas and the small town she felt trapped in.
If only her friends or teachers had been able to truly listen or offer the support she needed, Mia might have had a narrative filled with hope instead of despair. If only someone had spoken the right words, we might not have witnessed such a tragedy.
These reflections echoed throughout the discussions I’ve had with my high school students about the impact of a show that resonates deeply with their experiences. They shared their thoughts on how technology amplifies their lives, and how relatable the series felt to them. It was my students who opened my eyes to the themes and shocking details, compelling me to watch it myself. As a teacher, coach, and mentor, I realized it was crucial for me to not only watch but to facilitate meaningful conversations around it.
The show is reminiscent of classic stories like The Catcher in the Rye and To Kill a Mockingbird, where young characters grapple with complex emotions. Yet, it was my students’ real-life experiences that held the most weight in our discussions.
Having faced my own struggles with mental health and the effects of suicide in my life, I felt a strong responsibility to engage with my students on these topics. The main lesson I took from the show, despite the criticisms it faced, is that young people need to hear adults discuss mental health openly. They need to understand that conversations about these topics are not just for fictional characters but are vital in the real world.
Inspired by this, I initiated a small campaign with my students under the hashtag #13ReasonsYouBelong. We encouraged everyone—freshmen to seniors—to write notes of encouragement to their peers. I joined in too, sharing my own experiences and insights. The assignment was simple: write a note containing words of wisdom you once needed to hear or words that might uplift others. Soon, we had students posting these messages on lockers and sharing them on social media.
The response was overwhelming—over 300 notes were posted, and students actively engaged by sharing their own encouraging messages.
I challenge all parents, educators, coaches, and community leaders to seize the opportunity to share your stories of resilience and survival with the younger generation. Use #13ReasonsYouBelong or create your own way to communicate. While teenagers are captivated by shows like this, it’s crucial for them to hear from the adults in their lives about the lessons learned beyond high school.
Let’s reach as many young people as possible with messages of hope for those who may be struggling silently during their formative years. Whether you have battled mental illness or have been touched by suicide, your story can make a difference. Share your journey and inspire others.
For more insights on navigating the journey of home insemination, check out this blog post. It’s a valuable resource that can help guide you through the process. If you’re looking for quality home insemination kits, visit this site for trusted products. And for anyone curious about what to expect during IUI, this article is an excellent resource.
In conclusion, let’s work together to amplify our voices and support one another through the challenges we face.