As I have commented before, I teach an early morning seminary class for high school age students, studying the scriptures. It’s probably the best, hardest thing I’ve ever done. I absolutely love the student, I’ve always loved spending time with teenagers. They’re full of life, full of hope, and full of excitement for the future.

Every year that I have taught, at the end of the year, I have the 9-11 grade students write a quick note of advice, something they admired about that student, or a memory that they could share. It’s fun to read what each student writes. Sometimes it’s funny, sometimes it more heartfelt.

My favorite part though, has been asking the seniors to give their fellow students advice to live by, things they’ve learned along the way. So today, with their permission, I will give you their advice.

Tyler – “If your going to be stupid you better be just as tough. Do what makes you happy not what makes those around you happy. The only thing you can truly control is yourself, your attitude, and perception of the problem. If you want something, work for it. You get out what you put in. The world doesn’t care about your feelings or how bad it will hurt. “Life’s tough, get a helmet.” (Candice Owens). And stop complaining. If you can’t go over it or under it, then go through it.”

Calista – “Trust God. Even when your plans aren’t working out He plans always do. He loves you, so when in your eyes everything is falling apart he will bless you more than you can imagine. Some of the greatest blessings I have ever received came from the ashes of what I thought I needed. Love People. If it ever comes into question how you should react to someone, react with love. It might not change your situation but you will never regret kindness. What you do today you have to sleep with tonight. Be Yourself. Cheesy but true. There will always be someone who doesn’t like you, the real test is do you like yourself? Watch the Sunrise. Love your life, it’s really pretty awesome if you learn to enjoy every moment.”

I love these two seniors, not just because one is my son and the other one is my daughter’s best friend. They have learned some important lessons already in their lives. I look forward to watching who they will become. The rising generation is an amazing group of people. We hear all sorts of crazy stories, but I think it’s a small percentage that are just really loud. The rest of them are learning, growing, and becoming awesome people.