Getting Along with the next Generation Below Us

Judging and criticism used to be a tool we used when raising kids. It doesn't work anymore.

At All

As a parent with my kids in the house, I probably gave 300 suggestions a day to the five of them. Today, with them approaching seniorhood themselves, they aren't a bit interested in directions from me but rather encouragement and appreciation. Got it.

Early parenthood was filled with stress, organizing, feeding, wiping noses, cleaning, paying bills, driving, listening, filling out forms, shopping, doctors, teachers, oh my. Later, as I worked, I tried to manage by phone, checking in to see if dinner was started, where the youngest was in the neighborhood, and at my friend's home!

Late parenthood is the job of staying in touch, caring, praying for, supporting, encouraging, laughing with each other.