Eighteen Year Old - Grace Really Works
Dear Mark,
I heard you speak in Atlanta in May. Thank you. You changed my attitude toward my 18-year-old son at a crucial time. He is a sophomore in college . He was homeschooled from birth through graduation from high school and is living at home. He is a full-time student and also works 35-40 hours a week --a huge load for him. He is employed and the work he does is physically demanding, so he returns home three to four nights a week at or after midnight, sometimes has a bite to eat, and falls into bed. We've always had a great relationship, but I was starting to be bothered by his forgetfulness in making his bed (although he is up and gone before anyone else in the house and I believe is actually trying to be quiet so as not to wake other siblings) and putting clean clothes away. He also had other household chores that were not getting done. I decided that his siblings and I would serve him by helping with the things he seemed to be neglecting. As a result, I'm not on his case all the time about these matters, and we all get the blessing of helping him. I really desire that his time spent with us ( not much due to school and work) is pleasant and fulfilling, not filled with chores and demands. So, thanks for your words of advice and encouragement.
Sincerely,
A grace-full parent
