Help I'm a Mom: Why We Love Teenagers

Teenagers...

What ideas, thoughts, memories, emotions does that age group hold for you?

They used to scare me.

Well, not groups of other people's teenagers. I always loved our youth work. I understood that we, as their leaders, saw their best side. Well usually. There were times where what we saw made me nervous.  I sometimes wondered what was happening that we weren't seeing. For the most part, we found them fun, inspiring and full of life.

I was;  however, scared about growing our own teenagers. I felt prepared for the younger years. I knew that as parents of teens, we would get the best and the worst of them. That was a little more than intimidating for me!! I knew the potential for those years to be a rough ride.

I know you have heard me say before that we are loving raising our teens. This summer it hit me again. For all the ups and downs - a house full of teenager's is one of this life's greatest gifts. There have been some wonderfully surprising delights in this stage of life.

Teenagers are really amazing.

Here are a few things we are enjoying:

1. Development of logic and intellect- it is fascinating to observe this grow and deepen.
2. The depth of conversation- with increased intelligence and logic, the discussions on world events, ethics, morality, faith, and so much more, is challenging and engaging.
3. Their perspective- fresh, new, developing, strong, creating tension within them. It's fun to watch them wrestle it out, for the most part!!
4. Thoughtfulness- they have incredible moments of selflessness.
5. Companionship-they are such great company!!
6. Challenge- they will call me on stuff that maybe I do not always want to be called on. It is humbling and makes me a better person. I am glad for it.
7. Skill Development- they are ready for bigger things.
8. Adventure- they are willing to try new things, being more aware of their abilities and the  possibilities
9. Watching them surpass us in certain areas. They are truly remarkable, spunky individuals.
10. Witty humor and banter!! There are no words. Love this part!!! They keep us laughing, they are so very clever!!

Now do not mistake this to mean our lives are conflict free. do not think that every day at our house is deep intellectual discussions, wild laughter, peace and joy falling from the sky.

There are challenges. Some big ones. Yes, even in a ministry families home, shocking I know!! 😉

I have learned that focusing on what we love about this stage goes a long way to enjoying it more. There is so much good!

I have learned it is important to seek to understand where they are coming from rather than assume I know. I do not always remember to do this. I know them pretty well, sometimes I forget the rate at which they are growing and changing intellectually.

Knowing that we believe the best about them is a huge deal. We put some hard work into raising respectful, honest, hardworking good people. I need to let them know I believe they are doing their best to be those things. Knowing that we do believe the best about them gives them confidence. It assures them that we are on their side even when we do disagree or need to correct them.

I am thankful every day for the privilege of raising these dear ones. They have made me a better person and taught me so much. It is going to be fun to see what choices and directions they pursue in the next few years. I am looking forward to more fantastic adventures!