Parent Appreciation
By Sandy Jolles
The bell rings after your last class, and let’s be honest: you’re ready to get
out! As you fly to catch up with your friends, you might discuss the plans you have that night, or getting together for a sleepover. Problem is, where do your parents fit into this? As you squeeze in time to set your books down, you might exchange a little greeting, quick summary of the day, and then off to the mall. The fact is, teens have a tough time penciling in some quality time with the parents, that is until about 2 weeks ago.
As the snow storm of 2010 trapped us devoid of technology, the only people that kept us alive were our parents. Truth is, for your parents, it may have been a true blessing to receive that small chunk of alone time. Yes, the power outage gave us a little less elbow room, but some students may have found scrounging for some board games, or crowding around the wireless radio a miracle as well.
As most realize, school takes up about ¾ of our schedule, most of our life. We already have all that time to spend time with friends, and exhaustion already keeps us less motivated. By time we do get home, the only thing on our mind is homework and sleep. Next time though, take a second glance at your parents. You will see more than their interest, you will see them truly, and beyond doubt care about your day.
With this snow storm, the time we would spend on school and work, was
transferred to time with parents. We were well-rested, excited, and ready to
tackle the snow. Even the labor work of plowing and shoveling was spent with the parents. Parents are our rock. Our shelter. It may be hard to keep that in perspective what with the more current teen hangouts, and friends that shield us during
school. Let’s be honest, it’s much more appealing being seen with your best
friends than your parents at the mall. Since high schoolers have their
reputation and security at stake, parents are seen as “uncool” and “lame.”
However, come a time when you’re in dire need of money, or something of more importance: who do you think would come to bail you out?
So the next time a Friday afternoon comes to a close, maybe spend a night out with the good old parents.
