The Heroic Journey Program
Introduction to
The Heroic Journey
In modern times, most societies have lost the formality of a rite of passage to mark the important life transition from childhood into young adulthood. A few religious traditions continue, but these are generally more ceremonial in nature and have lost their power because the mainstream society doesn't honor them. Most young people no longer have the support of their culture when they reach this critical phase in their development. Yet we all have to answer the "call" to move from childhood into adolescence and on to adulthood.
The purpose of The Heroic Journey is to provide a structured program which can be conducted in a school or youth group, to re-create some of the mystery of an ancient Rite of Passage ceremony in modern garb. The Heroic Journey Program can serve as a map to help young people handle the treacherous twists and turns in the road to adulthood.
The drive for "proving" oneself seems deeply ingrained. Without a socially sponsored rite of passage, many young people today create their own initiations, putting themselves in situations that are risky or dangerous. At Heroic Journey, we provide an engaging, meaningful way to "initiate" into adulthood with supportive guides and peers that take the journey with you!
About the Curriculum
Each Unit of the curriculum represents a stage of the mythical Hero's Journey, and emphasizes one of the developmental areas that are most important in adolescence:
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SOCIAL
PHYSICAL
PSYCHOLOGICAL
INTELLECTUAL
MORAL/ETHICAL
Their are additional units devoted to the introduction and the formal Rite of Passage ceremony.
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Students are given a "Passport," which is something like a journal, to help them keep track of the Stages* of their adventures by recording their experiences along the way. They are also given a "Map" to show them where they are on the journey. At the end of each unit is a Culminating Activity, which is designed to stretch students' capacities, allowing them to "test" themselves in a healthy yet challenging manner. As each student completes a stage, the individual's Passport is stamped and he or she moves on to the next stage.
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