In memory of Vanessa Yasintha Wambura (August 2003 – August 2023).

In class we were asked to react to the article above. We were asked to reflect on it and I felt that it has a message that applies to everyone, at least preteens and teens.

To my reflection, in regards to the Words For Teens, I found that this message towards adolescents was long overdue. I couldn’t agree more with the principals’ words. Here in the 21st century, teenagers rely more and more on adults (mainly family) to get them out of trouble, or to help them in sticky situations. But when it comes to getting tattoos or buying cars, teens tend to repeat over and over again the same familiar and quite frankly annoying line, “It’s my life!” That usually ends with them regretting their action and their parents saying, “I told you so…” Teens need to take control of their lives and listen to those who know best. As Mr. Tapene said, “ It’s too late to sit down and wait for someone to do something someday. Someday is now and that someone is you!” I feel that this is pretty direct, get up and do something, whether it’s finishing your homework on time, going to the park or even making a sandwich; just get up and do something with your life. Now I’m not saying to rob a bank for the first time. NO! I mean that we need to focus on our future, focus on a non-changing target and try to achieve it.

As of harsh words, I thought it was quite appropriate. I mean, some adults tend to take it easy on kids, which is probably one of the reasons for slackers or drop-outs or those young adults with no jobs or education living in their parents’ basement. For once, someone said something direct and talked to teenagers as they refer themselves to which is “adults”. If teens can’t handle that, they can’t handle “the real world”. Quite frankly, I think principal Tapene was fed up with the behaviour of students or felt like he needed to set them straight so he offered some very important advice, “Go home, mow the lawn…get a job… visit the sick, study your lessons…” Things that are pretty simple but don’t seem to cross our minds. The points the principal made are really well said and are well thought out since teenagers are stepping out of childhood age and so as their life.

The thing is though, being teenagers is not a period to take for granted or be confused about it. But one thing, some teens seem unsure of what to do and find themselves not taking life seriously. They seem to think they know everything and that parents are trying to ruin their lives, when in fact, they’re not. As Mr. ‘Tapene said, “Your town does not owe you recreational facilities and your parents do not owe you fun” It’s up to you to make up your mind, to decide what you’re going to wear today, to decide what’s right for you. But a little guidance won’t hurt. I know that personally I have done things against my parents’ wishes and believe me I’ve regretted them, but you have to learn from your mistakes, and make wiser decisions next time and be a good judge. You also have to stop depending on your parents! To me, this piece means what it says… I mean it’s quite clear, take control of your life, of your events today and of your future tomorrow.

What is your take on the principal’s words? Was this harsh? As a soon to be teenager, I believe that we need to listen to this principal and start making changes in our lives today for the better.

Thank you,

Vanessa Wambura.