Aug. 23, 2023
Every day, we present our teens with the world, and they reflect it back to us. Look closely—what have you become so accustomed to that you’re starting to overlook?
Oh, we notice.
As parents, we’re used to steering the ship, but our teens are now at the helm, navigating the waters of their own destinies. They are the protagonists of their unique tales, just beginning to understand what that role entails.
This shift doesn’t mean they don’t need us anymore. Every hero requires a mentor. They seek guidance, direction, and someone to teach them the ropes—like how to wield a light saber. They need our support to recognize their own potential and to help them set their sights on the horizon. Once we’ve pointed them in the right direction, it’s their journey to embark upon. We have the privilege of being there at the start of their story.
Being a hero is no easy feat. We know this all too well. It can be grueling and, at times, when the going gets tough, our heroes might falter. They may make poor choices or lash out at those who care most about them, confident that their love will endure.
Heroes stumble; that’s part of the adventure. What matters is that they get back up and keep moving forward. It’s our role to remind them of their strength.
What a gift it is to witness this journey! How incredible to walk alongside them, cheering them on and lifting them up when they trip. To think that these young adults once curled up like little melons in our arms and now borrow our shoes half the time! We get to tell them repeatedly: “I know the way, and I’ll guide you. But I believe you’ll discover your own path and teach me too.”
None of us are ever truly prepared for this adventure. But you know what? Let’s embrace it together!
If you’re looking for more insights on this journey, check out our other blog posts about parenting here. And for those interested in fertility topics, Make A Mom offers expert advice. You can also find additional resources on pregnancy and home insemination over at CCRM IVF.
In summary, embracing the transition from parenting little ones to guiding teens can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. As we help them navigate their paths, we find joy in watching them grow into their own heroes.