As parents, it’s easy to fall for the trap that some things are inevitable – for example, that our kids will experiment with drugs, smoke, drink alcohol, go crazy.
PICTURE: Sandy Millar/Unsplash
Because we think it’s inevitable we can give in before the battle has even begun. We can let them have a sip, turn a blind eye, downright encourage them!
It becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy. These things are not inevitable. Most kids want to be like their parents; unless their parents are down-right controlling and unreasonable – or worse!
Don’t assume the worst and make it more likely to happen, assume the best, but be prepared for the worst. In parenting there are never any guarantees.
Love your children and walk beside them no matter what happens.
Paul Clark’s musings can be heard on radio across Australia and at atthetop.org.au.
