teens

Rewarded Through Service

by Chavah Kinloch on October 11, 2010

I’ve come to believe that each of us has a personal calling that’s as unique as a fingerprint – and that the best way to succeed, is to discover what you love and then find a way to offer it to others in the form of service, working hard, and also allowing the energy of the universe to lead you.

-Oprah Winfrey-

Last week I was fortunate enough to be invited to work with a group of young teen girls at City Gallery Invercargill.

I had so much fun. Growing up I was involved in a lot of church activities, so service and volunteer work has always been something I’ve enjoyed doing, even if church/religion isn’t something I do anymore – good values are good values. I haven’t been presented with an opportunity to give back in a few years though, which makes me think that maybe I should be more active in seeking something out because I’d hope my children would grow up enjoying helping those that need support, also. There are plenty of worthy causes out there that could do with a family like mine, I’m sure. Six people, 12 hands… well, not quite 12 hands yet, give it a few more years till the littlest is able to help out.

I was a little bit worried, about going along to help these girls out, I needn’t have been. They were the most fantastic bunch of young ladies ever. I was worried because of my own insecurities. Do you ever get that? A new opportunity presents itself and at first you’re excited but then fear and doubt creep in to your mind and you begin to feel completely inadequate. Well that was me.

Thankfully I didn’t listen to that stupid voice and pushed forward; I went on to have an extremely wonderful experience. The girls are from a local high school, and I’m told they’re from some difficult backgrounds. I hope I managed to create some joy in the girls lives, like they did mine. I also hope I get to see them again, I would love to do something like this more often. There is talk of more things to come.

All in good time though! First things first, gotta raise my little ones. :)

I received a wonderful, inspirational email from fellow artist Melissa Ayr about my experience and how to use it in my art, so I’ll be following through with some of her suggestions. I’m looking forward to that and will show you anything that comes of it.

Do you volunteer anywhere? Why do you do what you do? How does it make you feel?

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Life in Perspective with Amanda Aarons

by Chavah Kinloch on August 6, 2010

Eighteen months ago, wanting to give her children a better future, Amanda Aarons, her husband and two children immigrated to New Zealand. South Africa “Is a hectic place” and it was time for a change.

Relocating teenagers is a tough move. It’s hard to move and leave everything they know, this I know first hand.

Since being in New Zealand, Amanda’s focus has been on settling her children in. Not one to sit idle though, while she was doing that, Amanda began to do a life coaching course.

“It really gave me some insight into other teens and how they too have similar issues, I discovered that using art as an ice breaker, is was an excellent way to get kids to really open up about what thy are feeling, and experiencing. Art seems to refocus the kids and while they are working their ability to share and open up is less guarded.”

Amanda, also a talented artist, is now working as a creative tutor and life coach. She has created workshops that have managed to help teens create long term visions that help with focused goal setting, gratitude and values, self esteem and image. A process that I’m told, in over a short few weeks really makes a marked difference in these kids lives.

I love the concept behind this. A place to meet other teens and learn real life coping skills. A sense of belonging and understanding is so important for our teens. Best of all the first session is free and obligation free. Amanda also offers one to one tutoring for all ages, so if you’re in Auckland and interested in learning more contact her.

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