Holiday Season or Holiday Break? - YW 12-12

Holiday Season or Holiday Break?

December 2012

   I can only imagine that the Christmas season has been a “challenge” for parents

since before the first gift was ever exchanged.  The real challenge for every parent is not

the “gift giving” or the fuss over the presents.  The REAL challenge is what to do with a

houseful of young people from the start of the Holiday break until the first day of school

in January, especially during a time when the weather may prevent or limit outside

The answer to this challenge largely governs whether parents view November and

December as the Holiday Season or a “Holiday Break”.  Families with a plan of activities

to keep young people engaged or active enjoy a very long and rewarding Holiday Season

- they laugh and fellowship through November and December with a stockpile of

memories and pictures to share for years to come.  These families create environments

where some activities are planned and many others just happen.  Or, they have a

tradition of doing certain things through the Holiday season.

   Parents who regard December as a “Holiday Break” focus primarily on the days

where students are out of school.  If, as a parent/guardian, this is your focus, it may

mean that you are a more than a little concerned about how you will keep the kids

occupied during the break.  These parents may often feel responsible for keeping their

kids “busy” or simply out of the way.

   As a parent of four (two pre-teens and two teens), I look forward to the Holiday

season.  I really enjoy the extra family time.  Through the years, we have spent the

Holiday season doing a number of different things.  We have traveled to spend extended

time with friends and family, hosted traveling friends and family and stayed local.  In

any case or scenario, our goal is always to keep the family focus on the true meaning

of the season.  It is far too easy to get sucked into the “what am I going to get for . . .”

insanity.  The Holiday season does not always mean having to spend money.

There are plenty of family activities that are engaging, entertaining and just plain

fun.  Most of them involve having to let go of some of life’s stresses before you can really

enjoy them.  As an example, when was the last time your family actually played a board

game together?  Mom and dad, do your kids even know how to play hopscotch or jump

double-dutch?  For those of you thinking, my kids are too big for that, you won’t know

until you draw that chalk outline or count how long you were able to keep hopping in

rhythm inside those twisting ropes.  Those are just a couple of suggestions.  A few other

ideas may be to: look around town for local activities – take a ride to see the Christmas

lights, support the local athletic teams in their Holiday tournaments, create a family

newsletter for out of town family members (allow your kids to write their own section),

take your own family pictures, start a family athletic event for Christmas Day, have

a neighborhood “no-more-turkey” barbecue, have your whole family volunteer at a

The list of activities can go on and on.  But, it starts with someone in the house

(doesn’t always have to be the parents – just a good salesman) deciding that this is the

year that WE do something different.  From Thanksgiving to New Year’s, make it your

focus to give the gift of giving.  Recognize that the Holiday season is a special time of

year for everyone.  Special group memories, private moments, simple cards and long

letters all add to the mystical magic of the Holiday Season.  When we encounter people

with a negative view of this time of the year, smile for them anyway.  Wish the best for

them through this season.  The joy of this season is not reserved for or assigned to any

group.  The Christmas Joy is not based on age, gender, wealth, poverty, religious beliefs

or racial breakdown.  For those who fret about getting and giving things this Christmas,

remember that Hugs & Smiles are excellent (free) gifts to give or receive, wrapping

paper and gift bags not required.  Be Young! Have Fun!  Happy New Year!


Columnist Chris Dinkins is an educator and native South Carolinian.  His viewpoint is based on
personal, classroom and volunteer experiences.  Send questions and comments about youth related issues to him at youngworld.scarolina@gmail.com.

Ready, Set, Play - YW 05-13

Young World - May 2013

“Ready, Set, Play”

     There once was a time when the approaching summer meant that every driver on the road

had to keep a watchful eye for kids playing out in the streets. Summertime meant that there

would be doubleheader football games that lasted most of the day and trips to the pool that ended

when the lifeguards blew their whistles. Where did those summers go? Why is summer getting

shorter, and why are there fewer kids outside playing?

     Some would say it's because today's kids are lazier than previous generations. Others will

speak a convincing argument that video games have caused the end of childhood as we knew it.

But I have a slightly different perspective.

     I grew up in that first era of video games, back when the home video game system

was brand new, and we could actually go to the arcade to play video games. Most of the kids

in my neighborhood had some version of a game system. There were several -- Atari 2600,

ColecoVision, Intellivision, Nintendo, etc. However, none of these systems could compare to

hand-to-hand combat. Nor could they hold quite the lure of straight up one-on-one competition

with a friend. Many of the outside games we played as kids were either completely made up

or a "Congress Drive" version of an old favorite. But the best games we ever played usually

involved a mom or dad from our neighborhood. When the adults from our neighborhood took

time to play a game with us, the game took on a whole new meaning.

     If the games were based on strategy or strength, like War, Hide and Seek or SetBack, the parents

were usually on the winning team or won the game outright. But, if the games were based on

agility or speed, like Freeze Tag or The Obstacle Course, the kids usually were pretty successful.

At the time, we didn't realize how much we were gaining from the adults. There was much more

to it than an extra playmate on a summer afternoon.

     During those moments of play with the adults, we learned how to solve issues or disagreements

(and there were plenty) without someone getting mad and taking their ball home. We learned

how to fix the rules of the game so that they were fair to everybody and so that we all had a turn

at being the leader. We learned that, sometimes, it really doesn't matter who won the game.

I mention all of that because it was the adults in our neighborhood who taught us outside games

when we were much younger. I know that most of our games were locally owned because when

new kids moved to our neighborhood, they usually played the same games but with different

rules. The games we played outside were games taught to us by adults and older kids in the

neighborhood. Moms or dads taught kids how to throw a baseball or softball. Or, maybe kids

learned how to throw a football from an adult in the neighborhood. We yearned to play basketball

like the big kids while we watched in awe from the seesaws or the swings.

     We watched our parents when they played in the neighborhood softball games. During the high

school football games, there were always about 12-15 younger kids more interested in playing

their own football game at the grassy end of the football stadium.

Now, kids master athletic skills in camps and sports academies.

     Very recently, I was saddened by a seemingly normal young person who lacked the dexterity to

perform the simple task of a game of Hopscotch. How tragic. How many kids can't even jump

rope, either singularly or with someone turning the ends?

     My perspective on the lack of kids outside playing is more directly tied to the number of adults

who never venture outside with their kids.

     Outside is a bold new world to those young people bored with the same old video games and

movies. Grab an adult and get them to spend some time with you outside. Text or message

your friends and tell them to meet you outside for a game of Red Light, Green Light or play the

“Protect the President” version of Freeze Tag.

     And to the adults, I hear you groaning and complaining about the dangers awaiting kids outside.

Remember, that's why you should be outside with them. It's odd how we never had nearly as

many perverted things happening to kids years ago compared to now. Maybe it's because there

was always an adult around when we were outside. Parents please don't let your fears hold your

kids hostage in the house. And kids, please don't spend your summer as a slave to your electronic device.

I have to go now. My son is standing over my shoulder waiting on me. I promised him a rematch

on the basketball court. Be Young! Have Fun!


Columnist Chris Dinkins is an educator and native South Carolinian. His viewpoint is based on personal, classroom and volunteer experiences. Send questions and comments about youth related issues to him at youngworld.scarolina@gmail.com.

It's A Mad, Mad March - YW 03-13

Young World – March 2013

“It’s A Mad, Mad, March”

     It is truly amazing how the young (and not-so-young) mind is driven by the “next

event”. Even though we are only midway through the Month of March, young people all

across the country are looking forward to Spring Break. Teachers are preparing for the

next test. Parents are pensively awaiting the next set of report cards. And, practically

the whole world is already making plans for the weekend ahead.

     While the world is flashing forward, who is concentrating on this present

moment? What will it take for our young minds to learn that the secret to improving

your future is maximizing your present (and presence)? How much can be gained by

really investing yourself in whatever is going on – right now? Imagine that – maximum

attention to your relationships, friendships, parents, siblings, job, classes, classwork –

you name it.

     How will total immersion in the right now change your understanding or increase

your knowledge? So much can be gained by being attentive to all that is occurring

around you right now. Give your mind to the moment and see what the moment will

give to your mind. All that is gained today will only be multiplied by what is available

to be gained tomorrow. Consider this; you probably started to read this article thinking

about what you plan to do next or maybe even what you will do tomorrow. If that

is correct, more than likely, you don’t even remember the title of this article. Quite

possibly, there are several segments of today that you have to work hard to remember;

Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon.

     We want so much for the next “thing” to be GREAT. We want it to the point

we spend so much time thinking about the next thing, that we completely lose sight of

the present thing. What has your mind marching forward to the point of dismissing

present opportunities in pursuit of future possibilities? I truly look forward to what

my future holds, but I absolutely love what my right now presents. Immersing yourself

in current activities engages your mind, eyes and ears (sometimes even your hands &

feet). Even the youngest among us know that the best way to learn a skill or remember

a tidbit is to read it, hear it, see it demonstrated AND perform the task (repetitiously as

necessary).

     Why not give it a try?!? Starting with this moment, commit to being present and

engaged in the moment. Give it a “trial run”. For the next 10 days, focus your energy

and your mind on whatever the activity you are involved in. However, before you begin

your 10 Day Commitment, take a moment to look around you. In what condition are

your relationships, grades and other activities? To say that you will be committed for

the next 10 days means that you can’t sit in Homeroom, waiting to see your friends in

3rd period. The morning or afternoon announcements will not be a time to catch up on

your sleep or finish your homework. Being committed to the present moment for the

next 10 days means; you will actually LISTEN and THINK during that conversation with

your mom/dad/teacher/brother/sister/girlfriend/boyfriend (or spouse/supervisor/

co-worker for you parents reading this article). When your 10 Day Commitment

is complete, take a moment to look around you. Now, in what condition are your

relationships, grades and other activities?

     I would be extremely surprised if the things around you have not gotten better

than they were before. Engaging yourself in the present moment has an indescribable

effect. Not only will you begin to realize things that you may never have noticed before,

there will seem to be a greater ease with which tasks are accomplished. And, the

March Madness will be left on the basketball court. The Mad March to wherever may

possibly even become an enjoyable journey to your destination. Whether you commit

to being present for 1 day, 10 days or the next 6 months is all entirely your option. Life

is always about options and choices. Will you choose to miss out on the present looking

ahead to tomorrow? I remember being 6 years old, wanting so badly to be 9 like my

older brother. I remember attending summer birthday parties wishing my December

birthday would hurry up and come. I remember starting my freshman year of college so

intently focused on my college graduation. All of those days are long, long gone. Now,

I remember waking up this morning, wishing I could go back and live yesterday all over

again – not because of regret, but because I enjoyed it so much. Be Young! Have Fun!


Columnist Chris Dinkins is an educator and native South Carolinian. His viewpoint is based on personal, classroom and volunteer experiences. Send questions and comments about youth related issues to him at youngworld.scarolina@gmail.com.

Queens Raise Kings - YW 03-2013

Young World – March 2013

“Queens Raise Kings”

      The 21st century family structure is more complex and diverse than anyone could

have ever imagined. The standard image of mom, dad and 2.25 kids is fleeting and

nearly non-existent. Instead, the more common image is that of 2.25 parents for every

family. Step-parents, live-in “friends” of single parents, grandparents serving as parents,

foster parents, “uncle daddy”, “auntie momma” and 17-year old high school students

who live on their own all contribute to the varied visualization that we know today as

"The Family".

     Earlier Young World columns have made mention of the value of the family. The

most recent articles particularly focused on dad’s role in child development; but what

about the scenarios where dad is invisible, unavailable or absolutely unworthy? Whether

he is in the house or out of the picture, an absentee father necessitates a super-strong

mother. Of great concern in this picture is the little boy who must now learn how to be a

man from his mother. Many will say that “A woman can’t teach a boy to be a man”, and I

agree. That however, is a very different statement from “a woman can’t raise a boy to be

a man”. I believe the latter to be absolutely false. As a matter of fact, I personally contradict

that statement.

     I am the product of a single-parent household. My brother, sister and I were

raised by my mother who worked rotating shifts in a manufacturing environment to

keep us fed, warm and clothed. I dare not say that our life was easy or that we were well-

off. As a matter of fact, quite the opposite was true. We lived as minimally as possible,

but there was always love. In all honesty, it is in retrospect (looking back at my youth)

that I realize how little we actually had. I guess I was blessed in that I was poor and

didn't really know it.

     I thank my mother for that. My father’s absence did not mean that there was a

lack of discipline. My mother didn’t go out of her way to give us material things out of

guilt that dad was not in the house. But there again, this was over 30 years ago. Today’s

single mothers work hard to shower kids with material things; designer clothes, $120

sneakers, video games, expensive cell phones and music devices.

     My question is, “Why?” Mom, what is it you hope to teach your son by giving him

all that he asks for, despite the sacrifice you have to make when he is willing to sacrifice

nothing? Son do you, for a moment, think about what your mother endures to provide

for you?

     It is every mother’s dream to raise a son who achieves great things and brings

honor to his family name. By the same token, it is every son’s dream to make his mother

burst with pride at the accomplishments of her baby boy. One quick glance can easily

confirm this. Mothers scrutinize and interrogate young ladies before giving the “thumbs

up” or “thumbs down” about any type of relationship with their sons; we won’t even get

into the exercises necessary to be considered as a daughter-in-law. Sideline cameras and

post-game interviews record millions of sound-bytes from men and boys who give

“shout outs” to mama during the big game or after a good competition.

     Mothers wield an un-explainable captivity over their little boys, similar to the

un-explainable relationship between the moon and the ocean. They are connected by

unseen ties. Over time, those ties become stronger or weaker based on the severity of

the pull in opposite directions. Moms may develop stronger relationships with careers,

deeper bonds with new husbands, become more emotionally attached to friends or other

children. Sons may be drawn into sports, new social circles, teen scenes (where parents

aren’t invited) or relationships. Any one of these pulls on either end can upset the lunar/

emotional balance between mother and son. Family chaos is certain when any number

of these distractions occur simultaneously.

     I acknowledge all that mothers (single, married or other) do in the development

of dependent little boys into strong confident men. And, to the “SuperMom” trying to be

both father and mother, I invite you to take off your cape. Your motherly instincts will

let you know when & who to turn to for help in raising your son. It is okay to rule your

house with an iron fist, but only IF you also rule with a heart as big as Texas. If you

desire to raise your young prince to be a great king, you must first be the Queen of your

home – not just by title, but by the respect your very presence commands. Live with

honor, work with pride, love with all of your heart. Show your son what each of these

character traits mean. Explain it so that it is abundantly clear. And if at any time he

forgets what they mean, he needs only to look at the way you live your life as a reminder.

     To the young man reading this article hoping that one day dad is going to come

back home, I urge you not to look through your mom while you are looking at the front

door. There most certainly are things that your mother can help you through if you only

trust her. And, as much as he pretends to know, dad will never be able to help you

understand how women think. The bible tells children to “Honor thy mother and father

that your days may be long upon the earth”. The “long days” involves more than physical

days of life, but also the legacy you leave behind. The court jester is only worthy of

discussion while he is entertaining. However, the young prince who becomes a great

King leaves much to be spoken of. Son, hear your mothers words, know her expectations

for you and work to never disappoint her.

     Langston Hughes’ words in the poem “Mother To Son” always seem to leap off

the page at me because it feels like he was writing about me years before my birth. I

need only to look within myself and think back from whence I have come to realize that

I owe my mother a HUGE debt of gratitude and never-ending hugs & kisses. I thank her

daily in my prayers, but probably not often enough with my mouth. As a matter of fact,

I think I’ll call her now to tell her I that I Love Her!


Columnist Chris Dinkins is an educator and native South Carolinian. His viewpoint is based on personal, classroom and volunteer experiences. Send questions and comments about youth related issues to him at youngworld.scarolina@gmail.com.

Men To Boys - YW 02-13

Young World - February 2013

Men To Boys

     November 4th, 2008 and January 20, 2009 are days that will forever be remembered as moments

that redefined the meaning of manhood and perseverance. One man’s vision changed the image and

perception of every man. That vision was also an instrumental step toward changing images and

perceptions for every man. Men who were previously mired in defeat now begin to feel

motivated and inspired. Young men who had already begun to feel hopeless and worthless were

instantly empowered with new inner strength. Supporters and non-supporters alike cannot deny the

impact of President Obama’s election and inauguration (1st and 2nd).  His persistence is electrifying

and empowering.

      Following the November elections, young men and little boys walked a little bit taller and felt a

whole lot better about themselves. Having witnessed this phenomenon, my mind drifted to the millions

of little boys and young men whose present circumstances would be vastly different if there had been a

prolific male figure in their lives – not a larger than life face delivering speeches on a TV screen, but an

actual “shake your hand on Sunday morning” type of presence; an “ask you how you did on your math

test” type of presence.

     In writing this article, I know that I may be viewed as self-serving or pushing a personal agenda,

but who cares?!? I am much more concerned with the state of young America than I am concerned with

how people may perceive my intent.

     Men who lead or mentor young men serve benefits that far outweigh or outlast the present day.

Untold benefits are reaped by simply caring enough to know the names of the young men who live on

your street, or those who sit on your pew. Why not attempt to get to know and mentor the male son(s)

of your single mother friends or co-workers. Just to clarify, I’m not suggesting that men should adopt or

“take-in” every boy who looks lost or acts a little different.

     What I am suggesting is that a phone call from or meaningful conversation with a respectable

male adult consistently over time will build respect and admiration. Through that respect and

admiration a mental model of manhood and adulthood gets formed. Young men very often model the

behavior of adults who either possess the things young men desire or who have achieved the things

young men aspire to accomplish. Unfortunately, over the last decade or so, those “heroes” or “role

models” have been people who are untouchable and unreachable. Our young men chase ghosts and

images. They attempt to emulate characters and personas who live in a world that is so extraordinarily

unlike the real world that envelopes anybody (young or old) not confident in their own ability or unsure

of their own identity.

     To the young men reading this article, I cannot help but to stress that real role models may

never appear on an episode of The Bachelor or may never headline a feature film. They may never win

a Grammy award or sell 1 million copies of anything. But, real role models will show up at your football

game or soccer match. Real role models know that there is a girl in your third period class that you are

absolutely crazy about, but have yet to approach. Real role models will teach you how to fix a flat tire,

tell you to open doors and pull out chairs for ladies and help you to pick the best college for you. Role

models and mentors are valuable resources. They very often see in us, what we are unable to see in

ourselves. The guidance and direction that a mentor provides may be the difference in enrolling in an

educational institution or serving time in a correctional institution.

     To the men reading this article, to you I feel the need to stress the magnitude of what is at

stake. Every year, millions of young men make tremendous thinking errors and commit mistakes that

cost them their future. It is absolutely tragic to imagine that at 16 or 17 years old, you believe that the

best of your life is now and the rest of your life is downhill. Without knowing that there are options,

young people make decisions based on the few options that they believe are available. To mentor or

influence a young man is to make him aware of all that the world has to offer. It does not mean that

you have to GIVE him the world. In Education, there is a proverb that reads, “Students don’t care how

much you know, until they know how much you Care!” That statement is especially true when

attempting to mentor young men. There will be culture clashes. There will be differences of opinions.

There will be ideological incongruence. The final destination of Manhood is of considerably greater

importance than any “traffic mishap” experienced along the way.

      I implore every reader to take a casual look at the boys and young men you interact with this

week. At a glance, it becomes painfully obvious that many men in our society have forfeited their roles

of father, daddy, uncle and grandpa. We have instead traded in those roles for that of homey, friend,

dawg and that unfamiliar role where kids call their dad by his first name. As men, we have been given

an uncomfortable role and extremely high expectation. The family is built on our shoulders. Let every

man examine his own heart and think back to his own past. Remember the men who were involved in

your life that helped you become the man you are today. Or, remember the men who never gave you

the time of day and left you to become the man that you wish you were not.

     A new year is upon us. A new day is dawning and the need for strong, intelligent men is ever-increasing.

To every k4 – 5th grader I ask, "Who are the men you most admire and want to be like?" To every

6th - 12th grader I ask, "What are you doing right now to help you get to where you want to be?"  To

every man out of high school I ask, "In your race to achieve Manhood, to whom have you extended an

uplifting hand?" Be Young! Have Fun!


Columnist Chris Dinkins is an educator and native South Carolinian. His viewpoint is based on personal, classroom and volunteer experiences. Send questions and comments about youth related issues to him at youngworld.scarolina@gmail.com.

A Senior Moment - YW 01-13

Young World - January 2013

“A Senior Moment” 

     Most people would not expect to see the phrase “Senior Moment” in a column

focused on young people. We have come to associate the phrase with temporary lapses

in memory or judgment. If the title of this article caught your attention hoping to be

amused by an anecdotal reference to me embarrassing myself because I momentarily

lost my mind, it’s not going to happen - not that I haven’t ever or will never lose my

mind (temporary or otherwise). I’m just not writing about it in this column.

This column is dedicated to High School Seniors all over the world. If you know a

twelfth-grader, make sure they read this article. If you know someone who knows a high

school senior, give them a copy. I’m sure you’re asking yourself “What makes this article so special?"

     Seniors across America are switching gears for high school graduation. While

some are gearing up, unfortunately, others are gearing down. This column is a call to

preparation. It is a call to resolution. It may also be your call to re-dedication. At this point in the 12th

and final year of high school, students find themselves in one of five categories:

1. Already accepted into college

2. Awaiting responses from college applications

3. 'Fixin' to apply to college

4. Not really sure if they want to go to college

5. Absolutely NOT going to college

     For those seniors in category 1 or 2, you are well on your way. All that remains

for you is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and to

apply for as many scholarships as possible (apply like three weeks ago). If you choose

not to apply for scholarships because you consider the essays too difficult or too time

consuming, oh well – It’s only money!

     For those seniors wavering in categories 3 & 4, accept this as your call to

action. Starting today, several decisions need to be made. Please do not let another

day pass without giving careful thought to your plans beyond high school. Consider

your interests. Pick a career based on the things you like to do. If that career requires

education beyond high school, then take the courses necessary to eventually earn money

doing something you actually like (parents, imagine that)! Making that decision is the

first step in determining whether or not college is the next logical step for you. If your

thoughts and plans lead you to college, make sure you apply early enough to also be

considered for scholarships, grants and other awards that you don’t have to pay back. In

order to receive these awards, you must apply early. It is not too late, YET. But too late

is just a couple of weeks away. Apply early!!!

     Every year millions of scholarship dollars go unclaimed or get rewarded to students

who were not in the top 30% academically of their graduating class.  Scholarship funds can

come from many unexpected sources. Do not let fear or laziness cost you the opportunity

to earn thousands in scholarship dollars.  For some students in Category 5, it is not a poor

decision or misinformation steering you away from college. Many students are fully aware

of their career interest and recognize that college is not a necessary step in pursuing that

career. If this truly is the case, I applaud your dedication. I also applaud your ability to follow

your interests and your efforts to make your dream a reality. To you I say, “Keep reaching for the

stars”.

     To others in category 5 who have made the decision not to go to college simply because

they didn’t like high school, please read this article again! And again!  Whatever your present

category, the most important step you can take right now is to make an informed decision.

Know why you want to go to that school. Know why you plan to pursue that major. Know

why you’re going to work there. Proverbial words from the Bible say, “In all thy getting, get

understanding.” Discuss your plans with someone who can help you get a clear understanding

and help you make the right steps toward achieving your goal.

     One final word of caution is: Do not yield to the temptation of Senioritis, Senior Letdown or

Senior Privilege (some just call it Senior Laziness). Colleges are issuing conditional acceptance

letters, with the final acceptance pending an official transcript to include your entire senior year.

Continue in your hard work. As a high school senior, it is okay to enjoy a moment. However,

please don’t let the entire Spring semester become your Senior Moment. At some point you

will notice that the harder you work, the luckier you seem to get. Be Young! Have Fun!


Columnist Chris Dinkins is an educator and native South Carolinian. His viewpoint is based on 
personal, classroom and volunteer experiences. Send questions and comments about youth related issues 
to him at youngworld.scarolina@gmail.com.

His Story - YW 12-13

Young World - January 2013

His Story

     On January 21, 2013, the whole world paused to watch and listen as historic

moments were written into tomorrow’s history books. As if scripted for a television

series, President Barack Obama took the Presidential Oath of Office on the Martin

Luther King, Junior holiday. The irony of the moment is not lost on those who fought

so hard for so long to gain equal consideration in all areas of society. On the same mall

where folks were showered by the prophetic declarations of Dr. King, millions stood to

capture that moment in time.

    In reading President Obama’s books about his life, you quickly get the sense that

the kid named Barry Obama was not born into high society; nor was he raised to be

the supreme ruler of anything. He was an ordinary kid born to an interracial couple.

Just as many of the youth in our community struggle with issues today, Barry Obama

struggled with identity issues, “broken” family issues, family financial issues and a

whole host of other issues that continue to plague young people all over the world.

     Through all of the issues, young Barry Obama learned early the value of

education. Through the insistence and assistance of his mother, he studied long and

hard through school, played sports and made good grades. As he began to choose his

path in life, he knew that education would be essential for him to reach his goals. For

all of his hard work in elementary, middle and high school, Barry Obama found himself

pursuing a Law Degree at one of the most prestigious schools in the US. The years of

hard work in grade school were practice for the hard work and long hours necessary to

finish law school. The President we see on television today is the result of a series of

hard-fought battles over a long period of time. During any one of those battles, young

Barry Obama could have given up. He could simply have been satisfied with doing just

well enough. Or, he could have set his aspirations so low that it would not have required

half of the work or discipline.

     Because Barry Obama, the boy, pursued excellence back then, we give deference

to President Barack H. Obama now. This is his story. What chapters are you writing

in your story? At some point in the future, you will look back over the patterns, habits

and efforts of your youth and they will lead you to the measure of success that you have

achieved. To put it in different terms, the way you do what you do right now, is a pretty

good measure of how you will do what you do during your adult years. I hope the road

you are paving with today's efforts will sustain and support tomorrow’s travels.

     Each of us will have a story to tell. Or rather, each of us will have our story told.

The measure of success, happiness, riches or rewards is not in how much money you

have or things you accumulate. The true story of each man or woman will be in how

much we change the world around us, rather than how much we were changed by the

world. I like to think that I write good things in the story of my life by helping young

people every day. I pray that somewhere ages and ages hence, someone will smile when

they talk about my life and say, “That was His Story”!

     Begin your legacy today in the hopes of having a better tomorrow! Be Young! Have Fun!


Columnist Chris Dinkins is an educator and native South Carolinian. His viewpoint is based on 
personal, classroom and volunteer experiences. Send questions and comments about youth related issues 
to him at youngworld.scarolina@gmail.com.

Stay Focused - YW 12-12

Young World - December 2012

Stay Focused

     In this time of the year, it is almost unimaginable to get through a 24-hour period without someone or

something reminding you that this is the Christmas season. It wouldn’t be such a bad thing if the reminders

pointed to the true meaning of the season. Instead, we are bombarded by the commercial aspects of the

holiday shopping season.  While all the world pauses to bow to the shopping gods, the drama of the young

world continues on. Relationships, friendships, hardships, quizzes, tests, projects, papers - all continue on

right up until Christmas break. How do young people manage to stay focused during this period between

the Thanksgiving Break and the Christmas Break?

    Young people, this is the point where you realize the great job parents and teachers do in making sure

you are not overcome by the distractions of the season. Were it not for the concerted efforts of parents

and teachers, many grades would slip or drop drastically during this time of the year. To simply say, “Stay

Focused” is not quite enough. More specifically, students need to hear, “Stay Focused on Academics!” In

schools across Fairfield County, there is a significant decrease in the number of students who achieve A-B

Honor Roll designation in the 1st semester compared to the number of students achieving Honor Roll

designation in the 2nd semester.

     This plea is for young people to maintain your academic focus during this holiday term. Celebrate the

season, enjoy the lights, relish the cheerful atmosphere, love and laugh with family and, most importantly,

Be Thankful for all that you DO have (please)! But, do all of this at the appropriate time. Unto every “thing”,

there is an appointed season. Your appointment for this season is to put forth your best effort in all that you

do – academics, arts, athletics, you name it. Your “best” effort does not simply mean better than everybody

else. Your “best effort” means that you are better today than you were yesterday. And, better tomorrow

than you are today – constantly working your hardest to improve yourself. I pray that this season restores

your joy and renews your faith! Have a Merry Christmas!


Columnist Chris Dinkins is an educator and native South Carolinian. His viewpoint is based on personal, classroom and volunteer experiences. Send questions and comments about youth related issues to him at youngworld.scarolina@gmail.com.

Message To Parents - YW 11-12

Young World - November 2012

Message To Parents

     Let’s make one thing perfectly clear right up front. The teenage WORLD is

entirely different from the adult world. Just in case you (adults, parents, grandparents,

teachers, aunts, uncles, etc.) have forgotten where your mind was or where your hands

were when you were still in school – here’s a reminder; it had nothing to do with

retirement, mortgages or home repairs. As adults, we are quick to accept the whole

Mars/Venus theory about Men and Women, but what about a theory describing the

differences between young people and adults. What if we say that young people are

“trees” and adults are “landscapers”? (Huh?!?)

     As trees, some young people will grow tall very quickly without a firm root

system. Others will grow and expand but they grow tall very slowly. Still, there are

other trees planted close to the house and trimmed regularly so that they only grow to a

certain height or shape. Some trees bear fruit or flowers, occasionally both. Regardless

of its anticipated width, height, strength, appearance or location, every tree needs

certain elements in order to flourish. Obviously, different trees need elements in

varying quantities and at different times. The question at hand is, “What does the tree

in your yard need?” After all, your hands planted the tree. For years, you provided just

the right amount of light, nutrients and shelter. As a parent, remember when it was

“easy” to care for your kids – you held ‘em when they were upset, you hugged ‘em just

because and you kissed ‘em whenever you walked away from them. (Why did you stop

giving your tree the elements it needs?)

     You may no longer see your child as one who NEEDS you. But, how does your

child see himself? How does she view your role in her life? A 4 or 5-year old tree is no

longer a weak sapling. But, it continues to need the same elements a sapling needs.

Young children have similar needs as infants and toddlers, which coincidentally are the

same needs that teens and pre-teens have.

      As the landscaper responsible for providing the proper nourishment and

elements to help the tree grow to reach a strong and healthy state, parents should not be

so quick to assume that young saplings are ready to embrace nature on their own

because of the size of the tree trunk or the fruit hanging off the vine. A good storm will

test the sturdiness of the root system. A strong wind will let you know which trees still

need to be tied down for support or given extra warmth during the cold season.

If this whole “tree thing” has you lost or confused, just know this. As a parent,

never stop loving your babies like you did when they were babies. They may not tell you

or show you that they need it. Just trust and believe that even the big babies, can be big

babies when they don’t feel a parents’ love. Be Young! Have Fun!


Columnist Chris Dinkins is an educator and native South Carolinian. His viewpoint is based on 
personal, classroom and volunteer experiences. Send questions and comments about youth related issues 
to him at youngworld.scarolina@gmail.com.

Friends - YW 10-12

Young World - October 2012

Friends

     The 2012-2013 school year has finally settled into a bit of a daily routine.

However, some students still find themselves seeking avenues and outlets to expend

their summertime energy and enthusiasm. Welcome again to the old familiar routine of

classes and friends, drama and friends, teachers and friends, enemies and friends, and

friends and friends and (you get the picture).

     THE only things that remain from the school year into the summer and back into

the school year again are what can easily be considered as, the best AND the worst part

of your youth - friends. The friendships you create and lose only to gain again are what

guide you through the happiest and saddest times of your life. Very often, your friends

are the source of your drama or the key to your resolution. Unfortunately, many young

people spend more time thinking about which pair of shoes look best with which outfit

than they spend thinking about who they would like to befriend or who they have as

friends. Your brilliance is not magnified by and should not be decreased for a friend.

The popularity of Facebook and social media has severely weakened the meaning

of the word “Friend”. Friends are to be carefully selected! An old adage says, “Birds

of a feather flock together!” In other words, birds (chickens, turkeys, pigeons, eagles,

owls, etc) have a tendency to fly and mingle with similar birds. Birds who can’t or don’t

fly, very rarely “hang out” with birds who soar high. How much do you really have in

common with the people you call friends? If you have ever found yourself in the middle

of some dramatic situation wondering, “How did I get caught up in this mess?”, then the

answer to that question matters more than you might realize. Perhaps, the answer lies

with the person or people standing next to you in the middle of that mess.

     There is a surging wave of emotion driving young people, and adults, into

unhealthy friendships (relationships); unhealthy because they fail to build up anything

positive, unhealthy because they fail to support growth beyond yesterday, unhealthy

because they smother the life out of other friendships. Every individual has a slightly

different meaning and expectation assigned to the word “Friend” – what is yours?

     Before you allow another person into your life as your friend, be sure you know what

that word means to you. If your goal is to soar high, like an eagle, please do waste one

second of your time scratching on the ground with chickens (who don’t even know they

can fly). When you know what a friend is, you’ll become a better judge of what a friend

is not. In 1984, the hip-hop group Whodini released a song that asked questions still

relevant in 2007, “Friends! How many of us have them? Friends! Ones we can depend

on? Friends!” Be Young! Have Fun!


Columnist Chris Dinkins is an educator and native South Carolinian. His viewpoint is based on 
personal, classroom and volunteer experiences. Send questions and comments about youth related issues 
to him at youngworld.scarolina@gmail.com.

Forward Movement - YW 11-12

Young World – November 2012

Forward Movement

     Just prior to the November elections, I wrote about the impact of today’s political

battles on the Young World. I made note of how the negative campaigning could create

negative views or negative reactions in young people.

     Unfortunately, my worst fears were confirmed on Wednesday, November 7 – the

day after our elections. Instead of acknowledging the repetition of a historic

Presidential election, schools across the country, were forced to beg students not to be

disrespectful to each other or speak disrespectfully of President Barack Obama. What is

more unfortunate is that these despicable acts occurring in schools are merely a

reflection of the opinions, conversations and cyber messaging widely occurring in

homes, coffee shops and on the “Twitterverse”.

     Despite years of progress toward “stable” race relations, we have allowed our

current political differences to drag us back to one of the ugliest periods in this country’s

recent history. Blatant racial attacks directed at our President have become a normal

occurrence – immediately followed by a statement that sounds something like, “I’m not

How can we expect our young people to move beyond the handicaps of previous

generations when we constantly reach for hate? I completely understand that folks have

widely varying opinions on a multitude of topics. But, is it acceptable for me to demean

you or for you to humiliate me because of our differences of opinion? I think NOT!

Our elections are over (we think). Candidates have been selected and now we are

all charged with the business of moving our country forward. I can say from experience,

that it is extremely difficult to move forward when you are constantly looking backward.

At this point, we should be working together to restore the greatness of our country to

its pinnacle. After all, most of our differences of opinion are centered on HOW we

should move our country forward. We all agree that there is a need to do something.

We unfortunately would rather argue about what to do than to work together and get

something done. What are our young people to gain from this “adult behavior”?

The Young World already knows that adults are crazy. This is widely accepted as

fact in the young world. Hopefully, our young people ignore the craziness and focus on

the need to get invested and get involved. Our future depends on the Young World! Be Young! Have Fun!


Columnist Chris Dinkins is an educator and native South Carolinian. His viewpoint is based on personal, classroom and volunteer experiences. Send questions and comments about youth related issues to him at youngworld.scarolina@gmail.com.

It's Okay to ask "Why?" - YW 10-12

Young World - October 2012

It’s okay to ask “WHY?”

     Recently, several Lowcountry communities have suffered the losses of a relatively

high number of young people. Acts of nature, acts of man and biological idiosyncrasies

have demonstrated their abilities to halt the force and potential of life.

     Who among us is not touched when young people have their bright futures cast

forever into the darkness? It doesn’t matter whether we knew them or not. For those

who had not the pleasure of knowing these young people, the mind instantly flashes to

someone you do know who is around the same age or same grade level. “What if that

were . . .?” It is unimaginably difficult for friends and family whenever young people are

taken from our earthly presence. The “How’s” and the “Why’s” can be haunting and

As adults, we eventually learn to cope and to lean. We often limp and lean

through, drag and dread through, even stop and start through; but eventually we move

through the process of grieving our losses. Some instances take a lot longer to move

through the five stages of grief than others.

     For young people who often lack the words or the confidence to express their

happiest emotions, imagine the difficulty of trying to communicate the deepest darkest

feelings the human mind can conjure up. Picture a tinted view of life further clouded by

Denial, Anger, Depression, Bargaining and ultimately Acceptance resulting from the

loss of a young friend or relative – a person who most likely appeared invincible just

Young people should first understand that it is okay to ask “Why?” It is expected

that you will be angry – angry at the doctors, the coaches, the gunman; dare I say, even

angry at God (but hopefully only for a short period). All of these feelings are natural.

Anger is one of the stages or phases of the grieving process. People move through the

stages in different order, and may be held in phases for different durations. There is no

standard length of time to spend in any one phase or to complete the cycle of grief.

It is more important to recognize and acknowledge where you are in the cycle. It

is also vital to have a support system or strong network of people who are willing to

provide a listening ear and sympathetic heart. I know sometimes it seems a little

awkward because you don’t know what to say to someone who is taking a loss especially

hard. In most cases, you don’t have to say anything. Just continue to be a friend;

continue to live your life as you did before the loss. Your friends will take great comfort

in knowing that you are still a friend. Your presence is generally more comforting than

trying to say the “right” thing. Keep talking about what happened in English class or in

the lunchroom. Keep the new information coming about who “broke up” or who

“hooked up”. Your friend needs to know that ALL life did not stop. While it may sound

cold to say, it is this truth that eventually guides us through the cycle of grief – “Life Goes On".

Allow grieving young people to “return to themselves”. Give them space, but also

give them support. Instead of asking them, “Why can’t you just get over it?”, allow them

to ask, “Why did this have to happen?” Be Young! Have Fun!


Columnist Chris Dinkins is an educator and native South Carolinian. His viewpoint is based on 
personal, classroom and volunteer experiences. Send questions and comments about youth related issues 
to him at youngworld.scarolina@gmail.com.

Learning for Life! - YW 09-12

Young World - September 2012

Learning for Life!

   It’s finally over! The opening bell has sounded and the daily classroom shuffle

has begun for another 180 day parade. The football seasons have kicked off. The trash

talking and rivalries are already in full swing. Some lucky Fairfield county students are

preparing for their first school dance. Parents have shared their expectations with

students (that’s a hint for those of you parents who haven’t already had that talk).

Teachers have shared their expectations with students. Administrators have shared

their expectations with students. Even the bus drivers have shared their expectations

with students. But, with whom have the students shared their expectations?

   What is it that students really expect to gain from another year in school? Sure,

any student can tell you that she expects to learn something. Every student plans for his

next year to be better than last year. In measurable terms, what does it mean? How do

students really know when they’ve learned something new? What’s the best way to tell

when the thinking muscle is getting proper exercise? These questions are and will be

the source of much frustration for students, teachers, parents and administrators for

this and every school year to come. Because the underlying questions are basically,

“Why do kids come to school?” and “What are they getting when they are at school?”

(Anybody who wants to try to answer those two questions, just send me an e-mail!)

While parents and education folk view school as the place for the 3R’s (“readin’,

ritin’ & rithmetic”), students will see those three R’s and throw in a couple of F’s

(fellowship & fun). Why can’t learning be fun? Students have fun learning how to play

soccer, how to execute jiujutsu moves or how to play musical instruments. These are

challenging tasks, but every year, kids as young as four or five readily accept the

challenges. The difference in these things and what goes on in the classroom can be

attributed to student perception and student interest. Some students REALLY love

their Science classes; others love Literature or History. Whatever it is that students

love, it causes them to perform at a much higher level. Sometimes the performance

difference can equate to two or three letter grades.

   Instead of sitting in class wasting time by wondering “why do I have to learn

this?” try listening to what is going on. I know that getting interested sometimes means

allowing your mind to imagine places outside of your reality. Getting interested may

mean you’re the only kid on your block, or in your neighborhood, that likes this or likes

that. SO WHAT?!? Be who you want to be. Go to school because you like school. Sit in

the front because you like the class. Feel free to be a nerd, or dancer or wrenchhead or

cheerleader or the smartest kid in the class. Be the leader - blaze a new trail! Let others

decide whether or not they are going to follow you. Expect that you will succeed.

Expect obstacles. Expect people to come and go in your life. Learn what your interests

are and who supports your involvement in those interests. Whatever you decide to do,

just be sure YOU know why you’ve made that decision! Be Young - Have Fun!


Columnist Chris Dinkins is an educator and native South Carolinian. His viewpoint is based on
personal, classroom and volunteer experiences. Send questions and comments about youth related issues
to him at youngworld.scarolina@gmail.com.

A Teacher's Heart - YW 08-12

Young World – August 2012

“A Teacher’s Heart”

   In prior years of writing this column, I typically try to impart some wisdom to

students as they initiate a new school year. I want students to expect great things for

themselves and from themselves. For August 2012, I think I’ll try something different. I

continue to want all students to expect great things, but this year, I would like to call

upon the teachers for a little bit of help.

   I very humbly submit this request to every teacher within eyesight of this article;

my simple request is that you remember why you began teaching. If you got into

teaching for summers off, then you can feel free to skip the memory exercise (you

should focus on whether you really want to remain in education). Do you remember

that incredible sense of anticipation leading up to the start of school? Do you remember

when you spent more money on back-to-school supplies than you were probably going

to earn in your first week’s paycheck? Do you still have your first Roll Book; your first

gift from a student? Do you remember worrying about how your students would react

These questions I ask to help you think back to a time when all that mattered was

how many students you could help. Of all the teachers I know, some who taught me,

some who taught with me and many of whom I watched teach brilliant lessons, there

was one driving force pushing them into education: the students. Years ago, the

Jackson 5 released a song called Young Folks. The refrain from that song said, “You

gotta make a way for the young folks!” That is the same sentiment that drew, and

continues to draw, people from all races and cultures to the classroom. It is the concept

and the belief that “I can save the world one child at a time”.

   When teachers begin to lose sight of the “one child at a time” mentality, all

students begin to look alike. The actions of one student invoke good or bad memories of

a completely different student. At this point, the teachers’ reaction is based more on

what happened with the other student than what is actually happening now. Whether

good or bad, last year was – it no longer is, nor will ever be again. If it was great, by all

means, exert every effort to replicate. But if it was bad, set it aside; take from it only

that which you can use to positively benefit the young little darlings about to invade

Give each student the benefit of the doubt. Give them the opportunity to learn

from what you do, not only what you say. Show students the same compassion you

expect from your principal. In much the same way teachers flee a school with

inconsistent or weak leadership; some students will not react or perform well in an

undisciplined classroom environment. As a side note, volume and/or harsh tones are

poor substitutes for classroom leadership. Allow your students to see how much you

A considerable amount of effort and money are spent each year to teach teachers

that each student has a life outside of the 8 am – 3 pm school day box. And, the

condition of that life will largely govern the student’s attitudes, actions, reactions and

motivating factors. I urge all teachers to get to know 1 or 2 interesting facts about their

students before beginning the 180 day dash to June.

   It is much easier said than done – I do realize that – however, all adults

connected to a school are responsible for the development (mental, social or otherwise)

of each student whenever they are on the school campus. Teachers and administrators

will do well to remember, “The student least likely to ask for help is the one who is most

The role of a teacher is an overwhelming and sometimes frightening hill to climb.

Often thankless and under-appreciated, many teachers return to the classroom year after

year determined that this year will be better than the last. I salute you and I thank you.

As a teacher, you may never see the full effect of the work you’ve begun in a students’

life. Teachers are like the rock that creates a ripple in still waters - though its presence

changes the contours of the water, the rock never knows nor never sees where the

Just writing about the new school year brings on that anticipation. I look

forward to the new year because of the enormous potential and the opportunities to help

shape the contours of a young mind.

   Young people, I hope you have returned to school ready to work to your fullest

potential. Remember that potential unfulfilled is an undiscovered treasure! Your

wonderful life begins today! Enjoy!


Chris Dinkins is an educator and youth advocate. Send questions and comments about youth

related issues to him at YoungWorld.SCarolina@gmail.com.

Young World Introduction

     Welcome to the “Young World” blog. “Young World” is a column written to address the needs

and questions facing young people. Students from elementary to post-secondary

struggle daily with issues and often get many ill-advised responses from people with

good intentions. For anonymity purposes, many young people have resorted to online

“gathering sites” seeking resolution to, and/or comfort through, difficult personal crises.

“Young World” confronts issues that regularly arise in school or occur outside of school

but manifest themselves in different ways while students are in school. All too often,

the conflicts facing young America are trivialized or dismissed until the situation

reaches a critical level. “Young World” sheds light on the hidden issues arresting the

development of today’s youth. For those young people suffering in silence, “Young

World” is the conversation starter that allows young people to verbalize their concerns.

For parents uncertain about the “mental stability” of their own youth, “Young World” is

a comparison tool. It is also an opportunity for all adults to view young people from a

different perspective.

     Although the title “Young World” carries a bubble-gum, trendy connotation, the

outreach of this column far exceeds the readership of teens and pre-teens. “Young

World” is a thought provoking media resource with the potential to link young people

to rest of the “rational-thinking” world. "Young World" may be available in a local

newspaper as a Guest Editorial column.  Given the recent surge of “Newspapers In

Education” initiatives, “Young World” is an additional motivation for young people to

look forward to delving into their local newspaper.

     Young people need to believe that someone is listening to their concerns; that

someone actually cares. “Young World” reinforces that belief while also providing

insight and resolution. Should a youth, or even a parent, desire to ask a specific

question or respond to what is written in the column, please make submissions to

youngworld.scarolina@gmail.com. “Young World” is a good fit for young people in

the 6 – 96 age range. The Young World column is written by Chris Dinkins - father,

educator and native South Carolinian with 25+ years of experience working with youth

organizations. In addition to fatherhood and education, Chris has served as an NAACP

Youth Advisor, 3rd  grade youth mentor, Junior Achievement lecturer, Sunday School /Bible

Study teacher and fun park assistant manager.

     The time spent with young people is a valuable learning tool leaving much to be

shared with other youth and parents. I pray that this blog is of benefit to the cyber world

and individual readers.