Respect. It is such a simple word. It should be an equally simple concept; one that with just a little bit of effort should not be that difficult to carry through. You have to treat others as you would like to be treated yourself. Why is it then that the concept of respect is so difficult for some children (ok teenagers) to understand? I know that I am not the only parent in the world that struggles to have their teens show respect but there are days, like today, that I feel like I am the only parent in the world that struggles as much as I do.

Just as everyone does we have good days and bad days. But it is really difficult when the bad days seem to far outweigh the good days. I try to remember to keep the wealth of knowledge that I have gained through experience, my work on this site, and research at close grasp. I know that there are so many changes going on hormonally, socially, and the striving for independence but the fact remains that showing respect is not optional in our home. I know that I just have to continue to be consistent with my expectations, consequences, and rewards for good behavior but there are some days that I wonder if I will ever win this seemingly never ending battle.

I will never give up. After all, that is what being a parent is all about right? You have to keep going even when the going gets tough. I will continue to put one foot in front of the other and take one day at a time. I just hope that some time, someday soon, I will start to see the so-called fruits of my labor. Determination and remaining consistent with my expectations will hopefully begin to pay off soon……..to be continued??