Think About It [Questions to use in groups, or that teens can use on their own.]

—What was Mario afraid of? Make a list of three things you fear and compare it with Mario’s fears. Do you fear some of the same things Mario feared? Or are they different?

—Mario writes that the first step to overcome foster care and achieve independence is to “create a vision of yourself beyond your current circumstances.” Below, write out the following: 1) What does Mario mean by this and why is it important? 2) Define your own future: what do you want your life to be like in five years? In ten years? What do you have to do to make the vision a reality?

—Mario says the second step is to overcome your fears. He also says the people who succeed are the ones who accept they are afraid. Below, write out three fears you have about the future. Which fear is the hardest for you to accept (admit to) and why? Then write about things you can do now to begin to overcome each one.

—Mario writes, “You must take that chip off of your shoulder, blaming everyone else for your situation, and do something about changing it.” What does he mean by this? How does it relate to your life?

—Mario writes that everyone must take responsibility for their lives. In what ways have you taken responsibility for your life? In what ways do you still need to take responsibility for your life?

—Mario writes, “You must be willing to admit that you do have some weakness, and begin the long, tired work of turning your weaknesses into strength.” Below, write your reaction to this. What weaknesses are you willing to admit to? What can you do to turn them into strengths?

—Mario writes, “Sometimes people get afraid and return to the old ways of thinking, acting, and believing.” Does this apply to you? What would returning to “the old ways” be for you? How could you avoid returning to those old ways?