From An Outsider's Perspective

Understandably, the campus of a therapeutic boarding school sees more visiting parents than a traditional high school, and a parent's campus tour here usually includes a meal in one of the Houses. Students are used to having guests at the table, to chatting openly with them about the struggles that brought them to the school, and asking about the guest's son or daughter---obviously another troubled teen in need of help. Visiting parents are almost always surprised by the openness of these students, and by the wisdom and understanding they bring to table topics. In one House recently, a lunch guest got to listen to a troubled teenage boy face the why's and how's of his disrespectful attitude and behavior, and to the helpful, often amazing, insights of his fellow students.  

At the end of lunch, as is customary, guests are invited to ask questions. This particular father had no questions, but enthusiastically shared his impressions of what he had seen. "I wish I could be a student here!" he said, clearly moved by the proceedings. He told the students how fortunate they were to have this level of help so early in their lives. In giving the students a radically different perspective on their present circumstance, he also gave them something to think about. Later that evening, during House prayers, more than one student expressed gratitude for the help and insight they continuously receive from one another---which would have certainly gratified the lunch guest had he been there to hear it.