Speaking to the Next Generation

Much has been said and written about male influence on the life of a boy or young man. If we're lucky, we know firsthand the positive influence men like our fathers and grandfathers have had in our early years. However, some of us grew up without a dad and, in those cases, there may have been other male mentors who took on that role. For some, it might have been an uncle, while others might have had a high school coach or even a neighbor in that position. No matter who that person was, they were ultimately instrumental in shaping our perspective on what it meant to be a man living out his various roles as husband, son, father, employee, friend, etc.

So we know the importance of boys having male role models. The question then is how can we be that person in the life of a young man without a male in his life?

As was recently pointed out to me, if you spend too much time with boys you may be looked at with some misgiving. And if you go up to children you're not related to or familiar with -- and sometimes even if you are -- you can appear to those who don't know you or the situation, with even sharper suspicion. So how can we effectively be the mentor our young men need, especially if there is no male in their life?

To that question I really don't have an answer. Every situation is different. However, there are some tried-and-true ways to be an influence in the life of a young man that shouldn't cause undue reservation.

One way is to be involved in structured, recognizable youth organizations like the Boy Scouts, Big Brother, and the like. These groups always need reliable men of good character to volunteer to be involved in the life of young men. As a scout leader or big brother, you can share your knowledge and your experience. Your life, words, and actions will also give these juniors a glimpse into what it is to be a masculine leader in today's society.

Many schools today would welcome a male to volunteer in the lives of their students. A visit to the principal's office will give you an idea of how and where you can get involved. For those active in a church, offering to teach at vacation Bible school or Sunday school are two ways you can impart your wisdom to students and enhance their lives.

The real trick to effective mentoring is to consider your strengths and put them into play. What are your aptitudes and interests? What skills or knowledge do you have that would benefit the lives of these young men growing up? How can you make a difference in the situation and circumstances of a younger generation that could learn a lot from you?

Ask around. Consult with other guys who already act as mentors. See what they have to say. There are plenty of ways to get involved and make a difference in the lives of others. You may find your particular talents, skills, and experience are just the right match for someone who's having a tough time navigating his way through the oft-times perilous waters of becoming a man.

Do you have any story (rewarding or challenging) about being a mentor you'd like to share? If so, you can let us know by clicking here and sharing your thoughts.