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There's something a dear brother once said that I held close to my heart till this day (haha I think I've mentioned this more than a million times hur hur) - that youths do not need another friend... they need a leader.

He was saying it in light of me being really involved in striking up friendships with youths and investing a lot of time and resources in them... I guess I didn't really have the balance back then. :P

I'm just thankful that by His grace things have struck a balance to some extent... and grateful for a bunch of youths who are able to find that balance as well, be it at work or in ministry.

I cherish the moment in the midst of conversing with one of my youth leaders, how we're able to chat and share freely... he said some things which weren't quite appropriate and respectful and I made a note of it - he cheekily commented that he's talking to his prayer partner then and not his leader. Haha... I accepted that based on the past records of him being serious and listening to me as needed. And yeah... I guess it's only through balancing these different hats that'll allow a leader to serve lives.

I had the opportunity to catch up with one of my ex students the night before on msn - messaged him after reading some rather pessimistic note he posted as his nickname. It turned out to be a really long conversation and sharing... the bulk of which would have not been shared had he not saw me as a friend than a teacher. For a secondary two student, his ability to differentiate between the different roles is pretty commendable... and frankly, I'll be glad to work with students like him who's able to see you in your different roles.

But the leadership role has to take precedence. Not to say that it'll be entirely worthless, but if the appropriate growth doesn't take place through the interactions (spiritual, academic, self management, self care, etc), then being a friend solely will not be as beneficial as it can be.

To the friend I chatted with the night before... thank you for sharing. ;)

Not to forget that the Greatest Leader of all time, the Alpha and the Omega, calls us as his friends as well. :)