Recently, our attention has focused on the horrors perpetrated by young people. Acts, alleged or proven, of an 11 year old in Antioch, Calif., and 11 and 13 year olds in Jonesboro, Ark., challenge our reason. We hear of gangs, drugs, alcohol, suicides, lousy driving habits, and general wildness and rudeness that appear to be hallmarks of youth today.

The last 30 years have given rise to the phenomenon of the "Lost Generation," a generation often described as without guidance, morality and/or responsibility. This direction and guidance is essential, and mentoring is a vital aspect of education. It has become more and more essential that young people see and do what it takes to be productive members of society and church.

Risking offense toward hardworking and dedicated parents, it seems to me that a shocking number of adults have relinquished their responsibilities of loving, guiding and being present to the next generation. The prevailing selfishness of the age is being manifest in a small number of wild, undisciplined youth. This perception can affect our view of all youth, and yet we know that many wonderful young people are anxious to make something of their lives, to learn and to encourage their peers.

Youth need to be challenged to rise above themselves. Faith deals frequently with "conversion." Conversion is an ongoing process needing constant renewal. Our youth do not learn their faith and its practice and morality solely from the classroom, as of yore. They need the "hands-on" experience of making a difference in another’s life so as to understand how grace can make a difference in all human life. For many youths, it is not the "preaching" or the "teaching" that is effective. It is the "doing" for others, be it in coaching, supervising, and tutoring, trying to explain their own beliefs and morals to their peers, and observing the reaction and results of their outreach. In a word, they must "practice" their faith.

Who is to offer this example? The answer...us! If we are gifted with the vision and awareness of the right or wrong of situations and events, it is incumbent upon us that we transmit that same vision and awareness to youth (our children and their friends) in a practical manner.

Unfortunately, people today tend to be literal and sometimes need to be hit over the head with a hammer. How much more with young people who tend to be short-sighted. They often need to be told and shown what is happening, and why.

St. John Bosco told his Salesians: "Tell young people that you love them." We have to show them and tell them. We have to "use the hammer" and let them know they are loved.