Recent graduate Sam H. was asked to put into words his thoughts on being a leader. Sam graduated in August and clearly learned a great deal about leading while attending CCBS…

Being a Leader

Being a leader means to provide purpose, direction and motivation. What that means is if you lead someone, you need to model these things. You also need to influence them to do what you want them to do. I could have influenced people to follow instructions and to stop having petty arguments. I shouldn’t just tell them what to do because I also need to set the example and do it when it’s not my time to lead.

In being a leader, I have to provide purpose that gives people a reason to do things. That doesn’t mean that I have to explain every little detail. It also means that I will not be the nice guy and it also means I will not make them do anything that will be dangerous. I also have to provide a direction. While doing that, it’s my job as a leader to tell the followers what to do and how to do it. I need to give them specific instructions on what to do. I also have to provide motivation which will give them the willpower to accomplish any set goal they have set for themselves or a group. To motivate them, I should give them a task that challenges them.

I also need to know each individual to know what they like or what they want to do to be able to motivate each one in their own way. Another big part of leadership is goal setting. Goals should be realistic and attainable. Goals should lead to improved readiness. Goals should also involve everybody in the group. I also need to set a schedule to improve goal setting. Problem solving is another big part of leading. You also need to recognize the problem that is accruing.

Primary Counselor Yanic McDowell and Therapist Jane Barker with Sam on graduation day

As we say goodbye to Angel this week, we can’t help but wonder…. could he be related to the  famous 1950s  and 60s pop star Buddy Holly? Here’s to two Brown Eyed Handsome Men!

The graduation luncheon table looks a lot like a Thanksgiving redux as Cherokee Creek bids a fond farewell and best

The Big Grad Table

wishes to FOUR graduates in the next week. Michael, Alex, Sam and Eddie have worked very hard to achieve their PATH goals and their leadership shoes will be very hard to fill.

When asked about his feelings about graduating and moving on to a new school, Eddie said, “As Dr. Martin Luther King said, ‘Take the first step in faith. You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step’.”

Wise words and good advice, Eddie!

With full hearts we celebrated Wes’ graduation today. It was a ceremony filled with tales of the boy he was and the young man he now is. Virtually everyone recognized Wes’ leadership and many made reference to his kindness and friendship. Most of all, there was an expressing of pride and recognition of how much he has grown.

Congratulations to you and your family, Wes!

With full hearts, we celebrated Jon’s graduation today. Jon was honored for his leadership and “prevailing” ability to be kind and optimistic. Of course, there were good natured jokes from the boys about looking up to Jon both literaly and figuartively. But, mostly, students expressed gratitude for Jon’s friendship at the times of greatest need.

We will miss you, Jon, and are so proud of you!

With happy hearts we celebrated Jon’s graduation from Cherokee Creek today! It was a pleasure to look back on his journey of self-discovery and to recognize his growth. Jon’s leadership and fishing skills were especially lauded. We wish him the best of luck as he continues forward.

Calvin shines a great smile as his graduation gets underway.

A hearty congratulations to our newest alumni, Calvin!

We celebrated Calvin’s graduation today with full hearts. We are excited to see where his journey of self-discovey will take him next and hope that he will find his way back for frequent visits!

Congratulations to Matt and Lake, who graduated yesterday!! We wish you many blessings as you continue your journey of self-discovery!

Ethan (wearing his graduation robe) and the boys gather at the bridge before Ethan crosses to his family

With full hearts, we celebrated Ethan’s graduation today!

Ethan was heralded by students and staff for his ability to be a wonderful friend and to persevere, even when it was very difficult.

Though not as cold as the past few days, this graduation was distinct for the landscape – a blanket of snow still covers the wooded areas of campus, including the Ceremonial Circle.

We are so proud of you, Resilient Rattlesnake! You will be much missed!

Scott and Devon prepare to cross the bridge

With glad hearts we celebrated the graduation of Scott and Devon this past Friday.

Students and staff recognized both boys’ growth in truth, love, wisdom and courage – but especially Scott’s strength of heart and Devon’s perseverance. Both boys were also recognized for their friendship and mentorship to others.

We will miss both of these fine young men, their large hearts and leadership. Congratulations!! We look forward to hearing how your journey continues.