Conflict & Communication

My recent lack of posts is certainly not because of a lack of activity. In fact, I'd say that the youth have been as active as ever. The youth who graduated from high school are now Mentors, and have been taking a lot of leadership and mentoring roles with the younger youth. It has been a fun process to watch. Some of the current group members have just blossomed into leaders themselves. Encouring them just a little has proven to bring out their inner-leaders. And they tend to be at least a few steps ahead of me in the project we're working on.
All the great things, though, have not necessarily meant that things have been easy. We've faced some conflict, which has tested us. But we've come out of that stronger, and more sure of ourselves.
In the midst of it, though, it was painful. It was really difficult to hear from these youth, who have so little, but give so much, about challenges they were having, and being frustrated with processes and plans. Being frustrated about how they were being treated by other adults and other youth. Being unsure about how they should negotiate these troubles, while still giving projects their all.
My biggest challenge was hearing their frustration, and knowing it was affecting their work. Listening to their frustration but not being able to do anything about it. And engaging them in conversation without laying blame on anyone for the problems.
But, I think we've come out the other side... A few weeks ago, the other advisor and I sat down with all of them, and just talked. It was a really good talk. We encouraged confidentiality, honesty and just being open. And we didn't make any promises we couldn't keep. And I think it worked. I think many of them, though not all, have re-committed themselves to working together and giving their best. We're really sorry to see one or two still struggle with their commitments. And we certainly haven't resolved everything. However, it was a good start.
It just goes to show that open and honest communication is the key.