Entitlement - "Roots and Wings" - Part 2

Hey Moms, take heart … your man-child needs “roots and wings”. Yes, you moms have a nine month advantage on us when it comes to connecting with our sons. A son will defend, love and adore his mother even through the awkward teen years (when its not-so-visibly evident.)
 
Dads, I’m also talking to you now. Your young man-child needs opportunities to celebrate and challenge his masculine development from the early years of Superhero dress up to the ever changing “find my identity” teen. There is a transition period that hits between 8th grade and 10th grade when a young man's testosterone kicks in with a “FREEDOM!"/independence movement. Anticipate it and embrace it, but keep the boundaries in check.
 
Young men need “roots and wings” to become responsible and learn to take ownership for their ever changing emotions, dreams and physical development. Remember how cute he was as a baby making sounds of trucks, engines and machines... well the adolescent expresses itself with groans, cold looks, impatience and pressing for independence. Simply because he is chronologically older doesn’t mean he’s ready for the responsibility of his desired freedom. Expect push backs on rules and a pull for independence (ie. curfews).
 
The charge of “roots” is representative of intentionally cultivating character, work ethic, and respect.  The soil for that is the relationship demonstrated by Mom and Dad. The way you treat each other will set the pattern for how your son treats others, especially women and adults. The root stimulator should be words of encouragement, consistency, Scriptures and good old talking...taking personal interest in your child.
 
“Wings” refers to giving room for young men to experience some freedoms and liberties that have been rewarded by their hard works,  responsibility for their actions and reactions, as well as kind acts. It is healthy and helpful for a young man to venture out and even stumble while under your watch so that he can navigate as an adult. It is a lot like teaching him to ride his bike without training wheels. Young men that get suffocated and over protected have difficulty in college being decisive and making their own decisions.
 
Read the account of the Prodigal Son parable and carefully consider all the participants hearts, attitudes, intentions, securities / insecurities, love, acceptance, forgiveness and willingness to admit and embrace. That will keep you on your toes. Personally, I have been all three the younger son, older son, and the father.  You can find this story in Luke 15. Establish fertile ground for good roots and give them wings to soar.
 

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Camper Corner
Gentlemen, want more freedom? Show yourself to be responsible and capable of handling privileges. Try sincerely reaching out to talk, listen and understand your parents.  So often you’ll find them eager to support you in your craziest of dreams! Parents are on your side, they are for you. Show yourself to be teachable and willing to work hard, sacrifice and put others before yourself – then watch how parents, teachers, and peers come to you for direction (crazy isn’t it?).