The A to Z Challenge now brings me to E. I had originally planned to do a “Camping at Easter” blog but after a family dinner last night, I decided to move to a topic very current in my life.
I
In June my daughter, niece and their friends will complete grade 12 and start the next phase of their lives. For the past several months I have watched as these bright young people have planned, applied and stress over their post high school education. They have prepared applications, volunteered at various locations, played on sports teams, studied for hours and held down part time jobs. Yes, they have done most of this based on their love of: the sport, the society or the cause but it is also expected!
In order for these young people to get into the school or program of their choice they had to excel in all these areas. They needed to prove they are “academic”, “well rounded” and “engaged in their community”. I agree with the idea but I think we have forgotten that they are only 17. Yes, they have been accepted, but at what cost!
These kids are busier than I have ever been in my life and they are stressed out by the high achievement that is expected of them. To top it off, after they have spent the endless hours completing all of these requirements, they must worry if the committee on the other end will “select them”. Leaving their future in the hands of strangers who do not know or understand the emotion, time and passion that has been given to the choices these kids have made.
They must endure family gathering knowing the questions of “What school are you going to next year?” or “What career are you planning to go into?” are certain to come up.
Stress and anxiety is at an all time high with our young people and after watching this group go through this process I can understand why. Yes, they need to be responsible, but I think this has gone too far. The group I know is more responsible than many adults. They have an entire life to “be a grown up”, let’s let them enjoy their graduation before taking on the weight of the world!
💖 mom
Camp That Site: Enjoy BC with the right site the first time 
Leave a comment