As the parent of any teenage boy knows, these years can be challenging at best. The changes teenagers experience are both overwhelming for them as well as the parents. Changes occur in the relationship they have with their family. Many times my son unknowingly pushes the people who love him the most, further and further away. Creating an environment in the home where it becomes problematic to be in his presence. Constant arguing with his sister and “butting-heads” with his mothers every comment or suggestion. I realize he is going through the struggle of wanting to claim his independence, yet knowing he still values his families’ love. These are the times when showing his love toward his family has become difficult, unlike the times of his youth, when he could show love more easily.
Then it happened, a miracle of sorts. It was Sunday morning, the first day of Advent. Circumstances would have it that his other two siblings went to Mass at other times, with other family members. So here he was, alone with his parents and for a moment alone with his thoughts, while driving home from church. While driving home we hear the voice of a 14-year-old boy requesting our attention.
“I have to say just one thing.” he comments.
We wait quietly for his announcement.
“Are you hearing me?” he says a bit louder.
I reply, “Yes.”
“All I want for my birthday is a clean slate." And then a moment of silence in the car.
"A chance for us to all be friends and laugh and get along." He continues. "I know I haven’t been easy to get along with lately. I just want a clean slate for my birthday.”
A tear wells in my eye, as I consider the enormity of this moment, and the very mature request coming from a boy turning fifteen.
It goes without saying, his birthday wish was granted.
Today, November 28, we celebrate the life of a boy who was humble enough to admit he needed a clean slate, and mature enough to ask for it.
Happy Birthday Daniel!
love
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THank You Denise and Chamadii... Chamadii I hope to write more in 2012 and post our families thoughtful life experiences. I am glad you enjoyed it and I am humbled by your words! Have a beautiful 2012.
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Wow, what a grown up statement from a growing boy. That's fantastic that he knows enough to ask for a clean slate and to start fresh with his family. It shows just how much he's growing up.
ReplyDeleteDaniel shares a birthday with my husband! I also have a 14 year old and mine's a girl, AND the subject of many of my blog posts (much to her chagrin). She is also moody and pushes us away, but still so beautiful in her own way. I find myself laughing at her antics, because they make great writing material. Anyway, your son sounds like a great kid! Great post!
ReplyDeleteLisa
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Awwww! How sweet is that? He recognized how he was acting...amazing. Here's to hoping my daughter does the same. She is a good girl but since turning 13, I am finding she is moody some days. That said, I remember being the same way.
ReplyDeleteHappy Birthday to your sweet boy! A fellow Taurus.
Thanks Hezzi-D for stopping by!
ReplyDeleteThe year Daniel was born was Thanksgiving. I was very thankful that year, because he had to be placed in the NICU for a week before coming home with us. I also have a daughter who is 13... Oh the Joys! But she still comes to get her goodnight hug/kiss, before going to bed... Oh the Love!
ReplyDeleteHi Susan, I also have a 13 year old girl. I understand what you mean... moody one minute. Coming to give me a hug and kiss goodnight the next. My parents wished I would have a daughter just like me... I think that was a good thing. Actually I know it was, because Kate makes me smile as I see me in her most days!
ReplyDeleteIt seems your son thinks beyond his years. Such maturity for someone his age. Happy birthday to him! I love the cake :)
ReplyDeleteWhat a sweet boy and a sweet moment. I love it. We often talk in our house about being thankful to God at the end of a day that tomorrow is a new day and a 'fresh start", especially after a particularly bad day.
ReplyDeleteI can't think of a better birthday wish to make - and how lucky for him that his family was willing to grant it! Wishing him all the best for this fresh new start.
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PS. He's definitely not alone - I often wish I could have a complete new start... and as the Sun rises each morning, I take that as my cue:)
What a great story, and what a great wish. Congrats to you for raising a thoughtful and introspective kid--and for being parents who are good listeners.
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