“YOUTH IS USEFUL FOR THEIR AUDACITY, EVEN FOR THEIR IMPRUDENCES, FOR THE NEW IDEAS THEY BRING, FOR THE WORKS WHICH WE HAD NOT THOUGHT OF.”

– BLESSED FREDERIC OZANAM

We live in a culture that, at times, idolises youth. This hyperfocus can overemphasise the merits of being young. It creates false and empty expectations for those who are tasked with navigating their youthful years. At the same time, one’s youth can be a wonderful and blessed time. Frederic Ozanam was a twenty-year-old student when he and his friends started to visit the homes of people struggling with poverty. They were inspired to begin a Society that has grown into a worldwide network of charity at an age many considered the beginning of adulthood.

As Vincentians, it is hoped that our gatherings are welcoming places where young people can find friends and family. Our spaces are, and need to continue to be, environments where all members can develop fully, both in the human and Christian dimensions. How are we welcoming young people? As Frederic invites us, we must allow our gatherings and works to be places where bold, courageous, even reckless, action can be taken, and where new ideas can find a place to be nurtured and can flourish.

More importantly, we are invited to be imbued with and live a youthful spirit. As the Rule states, “Members of all ages strive to preserve the spirit of youth, which is characterised by enthusiasm, adaptability, and creative imagination. They are willing to make sacrifices and take risks for the benefit of the poor wherever they may be by sharing their discomfort, needs and sorrows and defending their rights.”

This does not mean that we mindlessly imitate the lives of young people or romanticise the culture of youth. Rather, it is an invitation to highlight and reflect on the characteristics of this type of spirit. To look at the world around us with hope and optimism. To be open to new experiences and ideas. To find inspiration in the unknown or unfamiliar. To be curious. To approach our routines and habits with creativity, innovation, and freedom. To live with enthusiasm.

There is value too in the offering of one’s seasoned spirit to others. To embrace and pass on wisdom accumulated over years of living. To act empathetically, drawing on one’s vulnerabilities and lived experience. To share with others the joys and sorrows of fulfilled dreams, missed opportunities, lessoned failures, and proud achievements. To invite others into the sacred space of lifelong friendships. To pass on weathered and reliable tools for the work that is still needing to be done.

At any age, may the Holy Spirit continue to renew our hearts and minds so that our lives are filled with joy, empathy, and excitement for the gift of God’s creation.

QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION

• How are you living a youthful spirit?
• How are you welcoming young people?

From: Firewood for the soul, vol. 2, A Reflexion Book for the Whole Vincentian Family
St. Vincent de Paul Society, Queensland, Australia.
Text by: Samantha Hill and James Hodge.