Anyone who works with young people knows well that there comes a time when they cut off communication, retreat into themselves, guard their personal space, and shut the door in our faces when we ask questions or express concern.
Youth is a beautiful yet difficult age: the world opens up before young people with all its possibilities, and they often feel disoriented, unsure which path to take, and full of doubts and fears.
As parents or educators, we would like to break through the walls of silence that arise in this situation, but even adults find it difficult to understand how to accompany young people toward the full realization of their lives. We often feel the need for an exchange of views, guidance... even just a word capable of showing us the best path.
This brings to mind the great saints who placed young people at the heart of their lives and mission, and who knew how to speak to them and guide them toward a fulfilled life and complete joy: Saint John Bosco, Saint Philip Neri, Saint Francis de Sales, to name just a few...
Precisely so that he could speak to young people, God's masterpieces, John Paul II conceived World Youth Day, an initiative later continued by Benedict XVI and Francis. Their speeches are a treasure to be rediscovered, and Father Lorenzo Galbiati lets us savor all their richness in his latest book: a unique and priceless treasure chest containing numerous points for meditation for those living through this extraordinary and difficult stage of life, youth, and for those who accompany young people in creating their “masterpiece.”
