OLD OR OPINIONATED

If you are over 30, you can relate to this: HELP ME, I'M TURNING INTO MY PARENTS! There seems to be an old tradition that needs a little tweeking. We need to try to stand in the gap, the generational gap, that is. Now I must admit that I am annoyed by some younger people but I'm really trying to remember what it was like to be there age. Anyone below 20 qualifies. I was spiritually spanked the other day and decided to try to adopt a new mindset. I don't pretend to understand all the abbreviations, hair colors, clothing styles, etc. But this is what I plan to do. I am going to get involved with our young people and be the best mentor I can. This is going to take time, prayer, and dedication but our youth are worth it. The first thing we need to do is listen. It is so easy to form an adult decision based on what is important to us. When you've worked all day, ran errands, and come home to cook, I know the last thing on your mind is what Susie said about Jane and it got back to her. Come on, you all know the drama we went through. But now that we are mature adults and have it all together (well maybe not) we can only think we wish we had such serious problems. If all we do is bark at the up and coming generation, we are pushing them to find a place to be accepted. Rules without relationship equal rebellion. What I'm not saying is let them do whatever they want. Our biggest problem today is our society is make them happy oriented instead of spending time with them. For instance instead of yelling at them for texting, share with them when it is appropriate to text and when it is not. Let's face it, our children have alot more outside influences then we did. Technology is wonderful but it will never take the place of a kind word, a big hug, or a comment of encouragement. If they are your children, know what they are doing and who there friends are. Keep the door of communication open. My son said he was going to nominate me for the World's Strictist Parent but we talked and laughed because I explained to him that I love him and I want to know what is going on in his life. I think it would be an honor to be nominated for that award. I'm not a perfect parent or even close but I'm learning as I go. Even if you don't have children at home, there are plenty of programs that you can volunteer to make a difference in someone's life. You don't have to look far because they are your neighbors, coworkers, clerks, and waitresses. Someone is looking up to you and needs your advice and leadership. The word says do we have eyes but fail to see and ears but fail to hear. Let's open our eyes, ears, and hearts and make a deposit that we can never withdraw.