|
Wouldn't it be cool if children came with owners manuals, individually tailored? "Leaky relationship with your 16 year-old? Heh, replace those worn-out seals with some new Dr. Phil head gaskets. "
Oh, well. IMHO there is no one way, no sure paradigm or actuarial analysis, that can be applied to rasing daughters or sons. There may be standards that can help, but be prepared to tinker. I have two children, btw, a daughter and son, a little younger than your daughter.
I was raised by parents that I think were very fair and reasonable. One of my older sisters feels the same way. The other, however, thinks she was raised by the Manson family...same folks, same environment, absolutely opposite reaction.
I rebelled as well (my Mom called me, based on the old James Dean movie, a "Rebel without a Clue"), but what teenage in the '70 in Cali didn't? The fact that my parents never closed down the communication channels, remained firm in THEIR convictions, stayed fair and didn't waiver, helped keep me from losing complete perspective. And you can go home again.
I may noy have always liked their message, but I always respected the messengers.
I personally think you are doing great, and that your daughter is fine. The fact that the lines of communication are open is the best indicator of continued success. All the best, Paul.
__________________
1996 FJ80.
|