A "New Way" of Being The "New Kid"

If you have ever been a "new kid", whether it be at school, youth group, sport clubs or anything in between, you know it's not easy. Why? It doesn't have to be scary, or difficult, but for some reason, being the "new kid" has become a terrifying thing.

For the majority of people, when they are put in a situation where they do not know other people or a situation at hand, or even what they day may hold, they tend to not be ourselves. Why? Is it because we are afraid of being judged? Afraid of people not liking us? Or simply because we like to be in control of every situation? Why are we all so intimidated? Intimidated by the people around us, intimidated by people who are just like you. Everyone at some point will be the "new kid". With that in mind, why is it so hard for us to welcome someone new? To smile, introduce yourself, and find ways to relate to that person. I believe it would be easier on everyone if we could simply be friendly. Wouldn't it be easier if we could incur grace on one another? We, as humans all have at least one thing in common, that is imperfection. We are all going to fail, to say something wrong, or to say something that embarrasses ourselves. Why? Because we are all imperfect, we were made that way, so why can't we except each others imperfections?

If you are a "new kid", be yourself. Don't be afraid of people judging you, because in some way those people are just like you. If you see a "new kid", go talk to them. Make them feel comfortable and smile! Extend grace on them and realize that you (if you haven't already) will someday be in their position.

{Chelsea}