Path to Discovering Genius!

I recently read “Understood Betsy” for the Mentoring in the Classics course and realized that the book centers around Betsy's discovery that she has a genius. Since this is an integral part of what we strive for in Vanguard, this is a good checklist of pondering to review both as parents and mentors.

Betsy goes through quite the process to get there:

-discovery that she can learn (driving the wagon*)

-discovery that she can be needed (the cat)

-discovery that she can be a part of something bigger and that she is a contributor (prepping meals with Cousin Ann)

-discovery that she need not be limited by externally imposed labels (grade-levels in schools)

-discovery of the joy and heart of genuine service ('Lias)

-discovery that she, too, can lead and deal with problems (the Fair)

-discovery that she doesn't need Aunt Francis's validation to succeed (end)

*references within book

I would highly recommend this short, readable classic for the parent mentors of any group. The reading and discussion of it could even be extended over the whole year, with a chapter or two per month.

Enjoy!

3 Levels of Contribution...give them a choice

"Reweaving the Fabric of Freedom" by The Center for Social Leadership

I like this article, because it gives three levels of contribution we can all do as citizens, as well as a direction to go with it. Our youth need to know options and paths like these so that they can not "wander in circles" like Uchtdorf's talk "Walking in Circles" our group will be using to kick off our year about "Journeys."  Some of our youth want to lead in political circles, some want to pursue paths of creativity and art, some want to follow professional paths...all these have an obligation to society to keep our nation free by certain actions on their part.  Hence, Vanguard and the principles we focus on. 

Think about where you fit:
1) producer citizen: good, salt of the earth people who work, read, and act consistent to what they feel is right--see page 17 for "what to do"
2) social leaders: "pioneers, innovators, entrepreneurs, investors, thought leaders, community leaders and political leaders"--see page 19 for "what to do"
3) statesmen: "Beyond the characteristics of Producer Citizens and Social Leaders, two core factors define a Statesman: 1) a broad and deep understanding of governmental, societal, and familial forms, and 2) the social capital and influence to implement those forms"--see page 21 for "what to do"

Take it or leave it . It was empowering to me. I also didn't feel that it was partisan at all, which was refreshing. Just a good ol' dose of "learn, serve, and think!" How powerful would that be! People becoming passionate about something (and I am not talking about emotions aroused by some snippet on a talk-show) and DOING something about it: feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, teaching, loving, creating beauty...and watching our society change one individual at a time. Gives me hope. Enjoy :).