Living in the Teenage Years

What's the phrase -- the best laid plans . . .

Last time my hubby was out tripping, things were not as good at home as I had planned. Jacob was and still is a typical teenager and well this time I vowed that it would be better. That I would be better. NOT!

At least last night we cleared the air a little, I think.

Teenagers are probably the most exasperating people on earth. Don't get me wrong I love mine to death even on the iffy days. You would think since I've done this once before that it would be easier and that I would see some of this stuff coming. NOT!

Jacob is truly uniquely different than his brother. Zachary was the typical moody teenager, but without much prodding would talk and you'd know what (okay a little of what) was going on inside his head and heart. Jacob is too much like his father -- very independent, very stubborn and does not open up his head or heart very well at all. On the other hand he's also very compassionate and loving to those he cherishes. Zachary is a little less forthcoming with his hugs.

Living with a teenager hasn't changed though -- it's still like living on the edge. You never know who or what you're going to get and when and why they'll change.

Father God, thank you for allowing me the opportunity to raise these two wonderful people. Thank you for the joy they bring me and thank you for the sadness and frustration that comes along with it. I pray especially for Zachary that you would continue to mold his life and that he will become a man of Christlike character. I pray too for Jacob that as he walks through these tangled teenage years that you would guide him to make godly choices.