Vocabulary

Several words have re-entered my vocabulary, or increased in frequency of use,  since I started working and living with teenagers: 

"Like" (I'm really, like, interested in the linguistic and cultural origins of how this is used...)

"Wack" 

"Blows" 

"Dude" 

"Fly" 

As well as a slew of curse words I really didn't need encouragement to use...

No wonder I get mistaken for one of the kids. 

Teenagers

Teenagers are amazing to be around because their transformation is constant. They are constantly negotiating identity, spirituality, sexuality, ideas, philosophy. It can be scary and alarming, but also awe-inspiring, to be around.  

My challenge lately has been to stand in support and solidarity to that upheaval, but to not let it dictate or set the tone for my life. It's quite a challenge. They outnumber us.