Where are the Youth?

Tears came to my eyes as I watched them—youth and adults, standing shoulder to shoulder, singing about 'everyday heroes.' I suddenly realized how rare this was. When was the last time you saw kids involved in a 'serious' event? Yet, here at the Martin Luther King, Jr. celebration, the young people were integrated into the entire program: the youth choir, the 9th grader who won the essay contest, the college students who created a video presentation on Dr. King and his life.

Not only the kids, but their families were involved too, younger siblings watching from the audience. The pastor, welcoming everyone to her church, particularly welcomed the children: "If you feel the need to squirm, we understand. We are glad you are here."

What a difference it made! We saw in these kids' commitment and creativity the hope that is keeping Dr. King's dream alive. When our children are involved, our own salvation seems possible.

So why do we keep the children separate? The business conference I went to last week, almost by accident, learned the value of including the arts. What would happen if they involved students?

Think of all the meetings and events you've been to - how would they be different if children were involved? What would happen if a 10-year-old attended the board meeting?

How would our decisions be different if we had to explain them to a kid?