ZACK AND J.T.

Too often today, teenagers get some really bad press. They are slammed for their eye rolling attitudes; pants hanging low enough to display underwear logos;constantly plugged in and tuned out; tongue and nose piercings; lazy about anything that doesn't require thumb control; lack of respect for EVERYTHING and pretty much self absorbed. These are the things that seem to stand out and are recorded. 

While some of that is true and many fit the above description, I feel way many more do not but sadly fall under the same umbrella of criticism. What we don't hear about enough are the really neat kids, the Zacks and JTs in this world that receive no press.  The story of these two fine young men came to my attention via my brother. 

Brother Jim and his wife had recently bought a new home which meant, lots of modifying to make it exactly what they wanted. The yard had some bare spots so they ordered a pile of top soil delivered to fill in the blank  spots and to plant seed. 

Now Jim is three years older than I am and Shirley is my age. Neither spring chickens but they are both actually in MUCH better shape than I am. They are avid bicyclists covering almost 1000 miles per year. I tire even typing that sentence. 

Still good shape does not make an ugly job pleasant, just doable. When they looked at the large mound of dirt that needed moved, neither was really enthused. Then along came Zack and J.T. The two 13 year old friends were walking home from school as Jim and Shirley were starting to  tackle the large pile. 

The boys greeted them, then asked if they needed help. Jim was a bit startled but said if the boys wanted to fill the wheel barrow, he could handle the rest. Instead, the boys not only filled the wheelbarrow many times, but they spread the dirt also.  All Jim had to do was haul the loads. 

After working about an hour, the boys finished up.  Jim gratefully tried to hand the boys some money.  Zack said, "Gee, you don't have to pay us Mister. We were happy to help." 

 "And you didn't have to stop and help. That was really nice of you. Thank you so much." Jim insisted.  So they accepted the money then continued on their way home.  

The teens that get all the press would have snickered to themselves as they passed the two seniors working ---if they had noticed them at all.  Obviously those two youngsters not only enjoyed some great parenting but also carried the thoughtful gene. 

I am sending out kudos to Zack and J.T. for restoring my faith in our replacement players coming up in this game of life.  There are lots of kids like this out there but sadly they too often go unnoticed. Let's see they get the press they deserve. 

I am convinced there are many more like these  great kids than the ones that make the news.  I've just done my part shining a small spotlight on two neat boys.  

Are there special teens in your life that deserve a nod?