By Dr Bill Maier
All teenagers want to be trusted by their parents. But trust is something you earn, not demand.
A counsellor once asked a group of teenagers: “How many of you consider yourselves to be honest with your parents?” Not one hand went up.
When she asked why, one student answered: “I don’t actually lie; I just don’t tell them all the facts.”
Sadly, a lot of teenagers have the same attitude. And they then complain when their parents do not trust them. But trust is a precious gift, and you have to work to gain it.
You begin by developing a habit of telling the truth, no matter how painful it may be, even if you have to suffer consequences. And when you give your word, always follow through.
When your plans change, call home to let your family know. And take care of things you borrow.
It’s the little things each day that build trust between children and their parents. Once developed, trust seldom diminishes.
From TODAY, Voices – Friday, 03-Jul-2009
No comments:
Post a Comment