I am delighted that you are interested in discovering what American teenagers have to say about their lives, values, hopes and dreams. The essays and reflections in this e-journal will give you a glimpse into some of the many ways a teenager's day might unfold in the United States, as well as an insight into his or her goals, ambitions, and concerns.

As a mother, a former teacher and school librarian,
and—a few years ago—a teenager myself, I am keenly aware that the health and welfare of a community or country depend to a great degree on the health and welfare of its young people. When teenagers know that the adults in their lives care about them and offer stability, guidance, wisdom, and love, they will blossom. When those factors are absent, healthy growth is stunted, and teenagers' hopes can wither.

In traveling through our own country and many others, I have learned from listening to teenagers that even though they might worry about the future, they are often more concerned about the present. Most of them are ready and eager to absorb the lessons that will help them succeed in life, and they are grateful to adults who are willing to invest time and effort in teaching them. When the teaching energy of adults is matched by the learning energy of young people, the results are stronger lives and a stronger society.

I am often asked to give advice to teenagers, and this is what I tell them: Remember that you are in charge of your own happiness, and find ways to spread happiness to others. Smile and say hello to someone at school who seems lonely or unhappy. Write to a friend who has moved away and might be having difficulties adjusting to new surroundings. Express your gratitude to a favorite teacher. Offer to help at home without being asked.

Enjoy the friendships you have and make new ones. Choose friends who have admirable qualities—honesty, intelligence, kindness, and humor—and who bring out the best in you.

Consider how to prepare yourself for the future. Think about the habits, skills, and knowledge that will help you succeed in school. They are the same ones that will make you successful in life. Spend as much time reading as you can, and read widely. You will learn a lot, always be able to entertain yourself, and be interesting to other people.

My greatest wish for teenagers everywhere is that there will be adults in their lives to show them, both by lesson and by example, the skills they need to take their place as secure, productive, and happy members of society. The most fundamental of those skills is the ability to read and write well. As Honorary Ambassador of the Decade of Literacy of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), I am working to ensure that everywhere in the world both boys and girls are taught from their earliest years to be the best possible readers and writers. With that crucial foundation, all other learning becomes easier and a successful life can follow.

I thank the Bureau of International Information Programs of the United States Department of State for the opportunity to greet each person reading this journal, and I look forward to hearing how it has been received by young people around the world.

Warmly,

Laura Bush