Growing up and its influences

Growing up is not simply a question of an individual’s relationship with time, but is a process in which wisdom and grace are acknowledged and integrated in the person. This process begins with the gradual accumulation of that which is true, good and beautiful. This process, for some, is linked to suffering. Suffering can happen through the loss of a loved one or through the experience of evil (which makes itself felt in the world in which we live).

The process of growing up should be influenced by certain things. Nature enriches us in a direct way. Contact with nature helps us to absorb the mystery of creation into our own existence. Inspiring writers and the testimony of brilliant minds can reveal to us the transparency of the world. The natural world is often used today in a utilitarian way, but it is also given to us to be admired and contemplated – the mirror of the Creator’s love.

Healthy relaxation is also necessary as the counterpart to study and work. Indeed, effort and fatigue tempers not only the body but enables the whole person to experience the joy of self-mastery and the nobility of overcoming obstacles and barriers. 

Another important influence is the achievements of the arts and sciences through which we can learn the truth about man, truth which enriches the humanity of each one of us.

Most important of all is our contact with other people. Youth is especially a time for new contacts; new companionships and friendships will unfold before you a vast field of human experience. What lies at the heart of all your contacts is to grow in the ability to discern truth in human matters. The essential truth of all human matters was summed up in a teaching made by the Second Vatican Council: “Man, who is the only creature on earth which God willed for itself, cannot fully find himself except through a sincere gift of himself.” (Gaudium et Spes, 24) It is through our capacity for self-giving that we come to know ourselves and through which we become more fully human. This truth finds its incomparable culmination in Jesus of Nazareth.

You will grow through your contact with God. How do you do that? Pray and learn to pray. Open your hearts and your consciences to the one who knows you and knows you better than you know yourselves. Talk to him! Read and meditate on the Scriptures – the Word of the Living God. God responds to us through the gift of himself – we call this grace. Strive to live in grace!

Your growth in grace does not happen to you simply as an individual but through your groups, your movements and organisations, and through their spiritual work and apostolates. These groups, especially when they have the involvement of priests, show the path for young people which is illumined by the Gospel.