Will I survive winter break?

worknprogress
Fri, 21 Dec 2007 11:28:59 +0000

You know what is really funny about your post? You want to be recognized as an adult and be treated as such, but your complaint centers around being with your friends all night. Most adults I know don’t think they are entitled to just be with friends whenever they want. “6 weeks alone isn’t my idea of a winter break.” Hmm, look around. Are any adults you see getting 6 weeks off from what they do? Didn’t think so. What you are asking to do is so juvenile and self centered it is going to be hard to be treated like an adult.

You sound like a good, responsible kid. You follow the rules, probably get good grades, etc. I don’t think this is really about trust. I think it may be more about learning that just because you have six weeks off doesn’t entitle you to be entertained.

We all realize when our kids have been away that they have been living their own pseudo adult lives. When you come home you want us to acknowledge that. I can tell you we are far more likely to do that if we see evidence that you are acting like adults and that involves more than just doing “chores.”

An adult pitches in and helps without being asked. They look around where they are staying and say, “Hey, what can I do to help?” They run errands, they carry in groceries, get the car washed, etc. They notice if it is a busy time for someone else and do what they can to make it easier.

If there are older relatives around, they check in with them and see if they can do anything for them.

Whether or not your parents are paying for college, they are paying for your home and for your food (and probably a car, insurance, etc.). My hunch is that you plopped your stuff down, checked the refrigerator, had some obligatory chit-chat with the old folks, went on to facebook, stayed up 'til the wee hours, woke up after your parents were working, and then decided it was boring being at home. Too bad.

Until you REALLY appreciate your family, you are still a child (albeit a good one) and no amount of whining will convince them otherwise.

Now, aren’t your mom and dad looking a whole lot better? Just think you could have me as a parent.