Something I’ve learnt recently is that even when I am not the one responsible and it has nothing to do with me, my teens still expect me to solve their problems a lot of the time. The jury is still out on whether this is good or bad. Maybe it’s a bit of both?
What I mean by this is…. They seem to believe I can magically fix or change something or, when in doubt, pull something out of thin air, which is a compliment, even if it's far from reality. However, the fact that, even as teens, they sometimes expect me to do this probably doesn't reflect very well on my parenting. At some point, I must have misled them into believing I could actually do this, or that I should!
I’ve also noticed that my role as chief Uber driver has drastically increased lately along with my petrol costs, yet according to certain critics, my driving skills have gone downhill considerably, as has my taste in music, my singing ability, and my knowledge of all things cool and fashionable. And yet…. They want a free taxi service, to use my Spotify Premium account, have claimed my shoes as their own, and want me to trim their bangs or pay for their haircut.
But in all seriousness, my kids are pretty cool; in fact, they're pretty awesome! For the most part, they're independent and self-sufficient (unless, of course, the pantry is empty of all edible sustenance). Do they still need help, guidance, and support? Yes, of course they do. Am I happy to provide it? Ummmm… in most instances, yes. Are we working towards even greater independence and accountability? Of course we are.
But here is the harsh truth that I have come to realise - Parenting teens is difficult. Homeschooling them is hard some days too. They have opinions, viewpoints, and questions that are often challenging to respond to. They have things they want to do that often aren't convenient or suitable in the moment. Often, they don’t see or appreciate the time, effort and prayers you put into their lives, or at least they don’t appear to.
However, give it a few years, and they will come to see you as more than just mum. You will soon become a "real human being," someone they value and treasure as a dear, close friend.
So, hang in there, mums. The road may be a little bumpy, but the journey is worth it in the end.
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