From in school suspension to center stage; The Andrew Boyer story: Final part (3)

Just over a year ago, Andrew Boyer, 15,  was a student who was serving after school detentions, attending Saturday school, and doing community service to make up for his poor behavior in class. Last weekend, however, he was clad in a stylish black suit and performing with confidence for a group of diners who had remained at the local coffee and wine bar long after they finished their meals. “One couple left and came back with a group of friends. They’ve been here for hours listening to Andrew sing.” said Angel Boyer, Andrew’s mother.

Andrew learned a lot of valuable life lessons during the past year. “First of all,” Andrew stated, “I want my former teachers to know that I have no hard feelings toward them and I know they were just doing their duty.” Andrew remembers listening to the song “Man in the Mirror” by Michael Jackson and being inspired by the lyrics. “Just because you struggle in middle school doesn’t mean you should give up.” Andrew said. “You can always make a change for the better.”

Andrew stopped running away from his problems. “It was like I was an ostrich putting my head in a hole to avoid things.” Andrew remembered. He admits that he used to slack off and became warped in the school setting. He worried about what his peers thought of him and was getting attention in a negative way. He realized he needed to find a balance and make some changes. He often thinks back to something his older sister told him. “Don’t take yourself too seriously and learn to laugh about things. Never feel threatened by others.”

Andrew wants to help other teens find a balance in their lives. “So many kids get caught up in video games or they get too involved in the social scene and all the drama. They don’t think past tomorrow.” said Andrew. “I’d like to change that and get kids believing again.”

Visit Andrew’s website at: www.andrewboyeronline.com
Email Andrew at: andrewjboyer@verizon.net