Article July 25, 1994 Issue

Writing for young people

Labels. Thirty years ago it was "hippies." Then it was "yuppies." Today it's "Generation X," "slackers," and so forth. No matter what we call this and future generations or how we describe their unique challenges in the world, young people should know that there is a way to break out of cycles of hopelessness and frustration. The Christian Science Sentinel is a place for watching together against apathy, malaise, and general discontent. It gives readers real answers to the challenges they face. The Sentinel also watches for the good that is being accomplished and shows us why understanding that all of us are really the spiritual likeness of God makes such an important difference in our lives.

Sentinel articles come out of a natural affection for others, and a desire to heal and to change things for the better. Good writing by and for young people takes into account the particular point of view of this audience, addressing their concerns intelligently without sentimentalizing or moralizing. That doesn't mean that moral issues are avoided. On the contrary, articles can show, for example, that the lessons learned from the Ten Commandments and the Beatitudes are essential to real happiness, health, and progress. Such lessons guide us successfully and free us from limitations.

Firsthand experience in the problems of the world is not a requirement in order to share practical solutions or to write about them with insight and understanding. Writing that captures the sense of "I understand, I hear you, and I care" is what comes off most effectively, whereas trying to tell others what they ought to do or making judgments can leave them feeling guilty—as if they are not acting like "ideal" people. It's always best to be honest and straightforward in the writing. We wouldn't want to convey that life will be utopian as soon as we think good thoughts. But we can help readers see that changing from a material to a spiritual basis of thought has a profound effect for the better in the way we live. We know that Christian Science can and does transform us in positive ways!