How can society most effectively combat the evils that threaten the development, safety, and health of children? Could it be that certain strengths lying within children themselves deserve to be more widely recognized—and that drawing out these strengths should be our aim in the education and defense of children? There are encouraging signs that point in this direction.
One example of someone who has found a way to help bring out the inherent strengths of children is Valerie Hamilton, a physical education teacher. Violence—including the murder of students she had taught, and the murder of parents of students—propelled her into action. Through summer camps, motivational programs, and a publication for youth called Star Child Affairs Magazine, she is helping children find the strength within themselves to say no to drugs, gangs, and other self-destructive behaviors. All her efforts are aimed at preventing violence in the lives of young people. A seven-year-old reader of her magazine says, "Once you learn the difference between good and bad, it will be a lot better." The Boston Globe, May 13, 1996
Some years ago, when our own children were growing up, a business associate of my husband's joined our family at dinner one night. There was something about his natural appreciation of children that brought out the very best in them. They blossomed in his presence. During this gentle man's hour or two in our home, I saw beautiful qualities in our children that I had barely perceived before. I learned a valuable lesson in how to bring out what is already present in every child, in fact in everyone.
