Just in time for Halloween, here's my top 10 list for why some adults find teens scary:
10. Teens can dress funny.
9. Teens can be opinionated.
8. Teens can walk around in big groups.
7. Teens can be silly.
6. Teens can be big.
5. Teens can be disrespectful.
4. Teens can be loud.
3. Teens can be impulsive.
2. Teens can be apathetic.
1. Teens tell their truth.
Most of these behaviors aren't that scary, except for the telling their truth part. So the vast majority of teens aren't really scary. Those teens who do the scariest things need brave adults in their lives (to love, support, and provide direction) the most.
Love,
Mom
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
How Beautiful to Serve
The cantor sang, "How Beautiful" at Mass. You and your brother were altar servers. I was struck by your willingness to publicly serve and be a part of all who love God. No easy task., you risk the ridicule of peers and enjoy fewer mornings to sleep late. Clearly the only gain is the privilege of serving God in this special way.
More teens would be happy if they could find a way to serve their family, church, and community in meaningful ways. Giving to others, especially when no prestige is gained, is beautiful.
Love,
Mom
More teens would be happy if they could find a way to serve their family, church, and community in meaningful ways. Giving to others, especially when no prestige is gained, is beautiful.
Love,
Mom
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Be Your(best)self
"Just be yourself." I hear this advice given via media and passing conversation, especially among teens. I'm not quite sure what it means.
Looking at it from one point of view, it might mean, "I really love you and think you are great. Don't get discouraged by those who are trying to cut you down. You do so many wonderful things that only you can do in your special way. You don't need to change to fit some arbitrary standard." This is sweet, reassuring, and hopefully true.
Looking at it from another point of view, it might mean, "Do whatever you want to do." This is wrong advice when speaking about serious matters, no matter what.
If I ever advised someone to "Just be yourself," it was a long, long, time ago. Now I would be more clear. I would say, "Just be your best self. God made you one-of-a-kind and has important plans for you. Be sure to share your time and talents well. Know right from wrong and keep striving for what is good."
Love,
Mom
Looking at it from one point of view, it might mean, "I really love you and think you are great. Don't get discouraged by those who are trying to cut you down. You do so many wonderful things that only you can do in your special way. You don't need to change to fit some arbitrary standard." This is sweet, reassuring, and hopefully true.
Looking at it from another point of view, it might mean, "Do whatever you want to do." This is wrong advice when speaking about serious matters, no matter what.
If I ever advised someone to "Just be yourself," it was a long, long, time ago. Now I would be more clear. I would say, "Just be your best self. God made you one-of-a-kind and has important plans for you. Be sure to share your time and talents well. Know right from wrong and keep striving for what is good."
Love,
Mom
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