This post is for all children who are turning thirteen this year (or those who have just turned thirteen). It is tough beginning your teenage years. You are not quite a kid, and not quite an adult! There are demands made on you from school, parents, and even your friends.
Pick your friends carefully as you often will be judged by the company you keep (for instance if they were troublemakers); friends can also influence you and weaken your own ideas IF YOU LET THEM! Stick to what you know to be right in your mind and heart. Now here are some rules that will help you if you think about it!
1. Wait to get ” seriously involved” – this is the beginning of your life – your choices now will AFFECT THE REST of your life. Don’t be pressured by anyone.
2. Pick your battles with your parents. Ninety-nine percent of the time they are doing what they feel is the best for you. Besides, ultimately, they are in charge. Remember it’s difficult for them to let you spread your wings in decision-making. They will, in time, be patient and make good decisions when it comes to YOU voicing your opinions. Make it an intelligent conversation; not an argument.
3. You are entering a period of chronic low-level insanity. The “other” sex and freedom seem to be a priority, but you have your entire life to have both. Don’t be rushed. The person you like now may seem just right, but as you mature, your taste will probably change – about ninety-eight percent of “boyfriend-girlfriend” relationships in the teen years changes!
4. The coolest people I know as adults were those who had many trials as a teenager, and met the challenges with a good mix of emotions and intellect. The most successful are those who NEVER drank or did drugs of ANY KIND.
5. What may seem like the biggest thing in your life right now may not seem to be so to your parents. They have their own multiple worries. Try to step in their shoes once in a while. Parenting is an overwhelming challenge.
6. If something is illegal, there is probably a good reason.
7. You’re not stuck. It will end. But it’s going to take a long, long time, so be a part of the fun, not the problems.
8. Pick up your own messes and even help someone else sometimes. It will pay off in the long run. When you grow up no one can say, “Boy, he sure lives like a pig”, and you will enjoy your home.
9. When you feel you haven’t done anything wrong, but you are blamed, remember the truth will always win in the long run – and you may not be the target – the “arrow” may have just hit you.
10. Even zits have zits. This too shall pass.
11. Your parents don’t hate you. Your parents love you more than you can even understand now.
12. Don’t kiss someone if they have a cold sore! – Herpes is contagious and is forever. There is NO cure.
13. Treat people with respect and don’t forget to say THANK YOU. In life giving a bit of honest appreciation goes a long way and what you give will come back to you.
