As I reflect on my experiences with my 16-year-old son, I notice he embodies more thoughtfulness and caution than I did at his age. Often, I find myself focusing on the tasks and responsibilities he needs to tackle, neglecting to truly appreciate his admirable qualities. Yet, this summer has offered me a chance to witness the remarkable young man he is becoming. Since I “forgot to plan his summer”—a typical scenario for a parent of three—he has creatively crafted a series of odd jobs for himself.
He tends to a neighbor’s garden, walks another neighbor’s ailing spouse, and makes daily visits to his grandmother to play with her dog while listening to her stories. He also serves as the tech support for another grandmother and enjoys fishing with his young cousins and friends. In addition to these, he spends countless hours playing basketball, dedicated to improving in the sport he loves. He is determined, compassionate, and possesses a great sense of humor.
As he prepares to head out for work in the neighborhood, he often seeks my advice on tasks like weed removal. I remind him of the precautions for yard work: applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and being wary of poison ivy. This is what being 50 looks like for me. He walks away, earbuds in, seemingly indifferent to my advice—such is the essence of being 16.
I still remember the terrible case of poison ivy I faced as a teenager, the itchiness serving as a stark reminder of youthful indiscretions. That itch symbolizes the reckless abandon of youth, a stark contrast to the comfort of being in my 50s. Friends and family in their 60s and 70s assure me that I am still young, even as I sometimes feel as if I’m descending from the peak of life.
Recently, my son joined me on my bed to say goodnight after returning from a party. “A girl told me I looked good tonight,” he remarked, a hint of surprise in his voice. Moments like these are precious; he is indeed growing into someone special. He’s 16—on the rise.
Perhaps my role is to simply share my experiences and offer guidance on the path ahead. The music that defines my son’s teenage years will be different from mine, filled with contemporary beats and heartfelt ballads. Someday, the songs that resonate with him will play on the “oldies” station just as Mellencamp’s tunes do for me now.
At nearly 50, I still enjoy a good tune. Recently, I heard a classic by Simon & Garfunkel, and a particular line resonated deeply with me: “Now the years are rolling by me.” It perfectly encapsulates the passage of time and the journey of life.
In conclusion, as parents, we have the unique opportunity to witness our children grow and navigate their own paths. It is essential to cherish these moments while providing support and wisdom along the way. For more insights about parenting and family life, consider exploring resources like Intracervical Insemination, Make a Mom, and Kindbody.
Summary
As parents transition into their 50s, the journey of raising teenagers presents a unique opportunity for reflection and connection. Cherishing the small moments while imparting wisdom can enhance the experience of watching children grow into their own.