When I first entered YJI, I was scared at first because I thought I was going to be in it alone. But I wasn’t, I had my family and my friends by my side at all times. I know my family was mad at me at first but then I realized that they still loved me. I’m so grateful to my family for helping me through YJI.  I miss YJI. YJI taught me a lot of things. It taught me that I can meet new people and that you are never alone.  I really loved seeing my case monitor after school.  I loved seeing everyone at all my monthly circles – they really cared about me. My community representatives did so much for me. Connie helped me study for my permit after my case closed, and Mary took me to her church to finish my community service.  The youth pastor there, Nathan, even joined my circles! He’s my best friend.

YJI was hard for me because of what I did to be in YJI, but I’ve learned a really good lesson. The lesson is don’t go online pretending to be someone you’re not and don’t start drama by making a fake account to draw attention to people and to yourself. The other lesson is when you get caught doing things like that, don’t lie, tell the truth, even if you don’t want to. The truth will always set you free, if you lie you’ll get into even more trouble. Always be honest with yourself and with others – that’s what I also learned in YJI. Be honest with yourself  and others, and be respectful. If you are honest and respectful, your life will be much easier.

– Erika, 14 year old, female, participant