It's Just Not Easy

We have teenagers.

Sometimes when they talk to us about a problem and we try to help by giving them advice they say "you just don't get it". Those are the times when we just need to listen.

But what I wish they could hear us saying is
"We've been there."
"It will get better."
"Some things are really hard but that doesn't mean it's not the right thing or that you are on the wrong path."
"You matter where you are. You are making a difference."
"Every day ordained for you was written in God's book before one of the came to be."
"Let days like this turn your faith that God loves you into intimacy with Him."
"Ask God what to do. He'll lead you."
"We aren't going to rescue you because we love you way too much."
"Pain does not mean quit."

I think one of the hardest things about being a teenager is feeling misunderstood. I think it's also one of the hardest things about being a parent.