Teens have a lock on team spirit
Editor:
Our society is changing. Emerging technologies and social media have created a world where our youth are exposed to large quantities of violence and a world where they communicate in ways that might cause parents – products of a different generation – to ask themselves what the future looks like.
Rather than pick up the phone or stop to have a conversation, our children now text, tweet, Facebook, Facetime and/or Instagram. One could easily be left with the impression that our generation was better, and that our children lack the same compassion or empathy.
I would like to pause here and ask you to picture a 28-year-old woman battling breast cancer.
Her supportive husband decides to shave his head to help her through the emotional strain that accompanies treatment. While doing so, he still volunteers his time to coach and mentor a team of 15- to 17-year-old hockey players, showing up at their game with a shaved head.
Afterwards, a couple of the kids talk about how great it was that he was still there for them. They also talk about how they would like to support him.
These young men secure the support of their other coach and, amongst themselves, discuss the loss of their precious teenage hair, and the impact this might have on their ability to impress the girls!
Notwithstanding that, with/through the assistance of social media, these bald-headed young hockey players present their coach with more than $2,300 they raised for cancer research. On their own volition, these young men have: contributed to a worthy cause; galvanized a team; helped solidify their own identities and values; and made all of their parents very proud.
One could also say this selfless and simple act of compassion speaks to the value of sport; is an example of why we should be proud to be a part of this community; and is why we should believe in the leaders of tomorrow.
Chief Supt. Bill Fordy, Surrey RCMP
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