This past weekend I had the pleasure of working with a great group of students in Helena, Montana. The students were the children of the Montana National Guard. This was the first time that I have had the pleasure of working with students that have this unique background. The weekend started on Friday night with games and goal setting exercises as well as an activity that asked the students to look within themselves. We worked on problem solving, communications, goals, team work, community and the ability to stick to their goals and  be able to push forward at times of struggle. The students responded to the activities with enthusiasm and energy. I later had the opportunity to address and work with their parents on Sunday. Funny the parents acted just  as silly as the kids did…even the ones in uniform. It was great to see the “lights” in the eyes of the students and parents gleam with energy and hope this weekend. They are some of the unsung heroes of our nation ,  the  families behind our servicemen..especially those that are deployed overseas. They are truly  strong.

I must say that working with the Youth Programs of Montana National Guard was an extreme pleasure and I look forward to working with them again.

This was an awesome weekend. Thank you Sara Cease and Julie North and the students of the Montana National Guard Youth Symposium.