I ran into this song last night while clicking around the Conway Twitty universe.  It goes back a little further – to pre-me.  When I was around negative three years old, Simon and Garfunkel put out their powerful Bridge Over Troubled Waters.  I listened to it last night and kind of wanted to incorporate it into what I wrote about preparing to be better than AI by continuing to do what AI will never be able to do.  I love the song.  I love it but couldn’t think of a way to fit it in.  Then tonight, I got into a little jib jab with a pretty strong advocate – and on a different topic, she said, “Building up children is way better than repairing adults.”  And then…Eureka!

For starters, it is a pretty soothing song that leaves me seasoned with feelings of support, hope, promise, and either being there for someone or having someone be there for me.  If this song doesn’t align with that quote, I don’t know what does.  Think about when you were a youngster and your “waters were troubled.”  Did you go it alone, or was someone there for you?  These days, for many of our kids, our schools' supportive and nurturing environment helps guide them through many of their challenges. 

In our new TCIS curriculum, we are now using the movie ReMoved – which anyone can watch on YouTube.  It is about a little girl who is in foster care – her name is Zoe.  So far, I’ve delivered it a few times, and two participants have already been drawn to tears.  I used to use Lisa’s 911 call – another YouTube video in a training that I developed on what some kids face.  I discontinued using it – because it was too powerful, actually.  I didn’t think it was overkill – because it lets people know the real deal – but the traumatization of participants was never the goal.  I will put the link to it below – but be warned.  It is a tough listen.  If you are sensitive, just keep reading, and don’t click on it. 

We didn’t have adjustment counselors when I was in school – but let me tell you, having them would have been a damn good idea.  Compared to my years working in education, as compared to the years in which I was a student in the education system, a lot has changed…for the big time better.  It comes down to that quote, as the “building up of children” signifies the preventative and proactive approach that is needed…was always needed. 

"Building Up the Children" signifies a preventive rather than a curative approach. It's about instilling values, teaching life skills, and providing children with emotional support into adulthood. This proactive approach is often more effective than trying to 'repair' issues in adulthood, which may stem from unresolved childhood challenges. The song suggests that being a reliable source of comfort for children sets a foundation for them to grow into well-adjusted adults.  Okay, let’s be honest – we can all use a reliable source of comfort now and then. 

Much like the quote, the song encourages a nurturing approach, highlighting the importance of building strong, resilient, and capable young individuals. This way, we enrich their lives and contribute to a healthier, more harmonious society. We should take this message to heart. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or simply someone who interacts with children, remember the impact you can have. By being a 'bridge over troubled waters' for the younger generation, we're not just supporting them but creating a better future for everyone.