Sheilla XIA2-21
Why I write this article? Because all of us must learn how to respect our environtment, from children, elders, and dont forget teens! It's important because we can't live without the others, and we should understand the people who live in the world to have a peaceful, happy, and surviving life. Parents or elders please enjoy reading this article. ^^
Your bubbly, affectionate and exuberant kid who wanted to share everything with you has taken a permanent vacation, replaced with a hormone-controlled stranger who runs from intimacy. It's tempting to use any method to eke out the littlest bit of insight into her rapidly changing world, but the more you pry, the more she shies. Here's how to respect your teen's privacy, so as not to widen the communication gap.
- Step back and don't intrude. Unless you suspect that he's involved in something dangerous or illegal, don't go through his things in his room. That's his space in your house, and recognizing and holding to that will foster a relationship based on trust.
- Try not to pry. Even if you desperately want to know who her latest crush is or what happened to cause that rift between her and her best friend, tread lightly. Ask her about her personal life in a delicate manner, encouraging her to open up rather than demanding an answer.
- Recognize uncomfortable situations. When entering an area that the two of you haven't discussed before, such as sex or drugs, if you're not comfortable with the conversation, chances are he isn't, either. Follow these clues and realize that maybe the current time isn't the right time to be broaching certain subjects, or maybe his other parent should field the issue.
- Avoid embarrassment. Nothing is more devastating to a teenager than being embarrassed by anyone, anywhere. That teasing you used to do, the hugging in front of the school or the goodbye kiss may be just enough to humiliate your teen. She'll feel violated if you, her most trusted person, make her feel unsafe in any way.
- Set boundaries for the bedroom. Besides not snooping, there should be rules regarding his room to give him reasonable privacy. There should be no locks on the door, he shouldn't bring anything into his room that he doesn't want you to find and he should keep the room neat if he doesn't want you in there straightening up.
- Create a safe haven. Part of respecting your teen's privacy is being patient and waiting for her to come to you with her problems. As hard as this is, it's worth it if you strive to keep your relationship fresh with good communication skills. The more she learns that you'll allow her to come to you without pushing any limits, the more likely she is to do so.
- Celebrate your teen. Rather than fight the inevitable changes in your relationship, show him how much you still love him by praising him for his growing independence and accomplishments every chance you get. He'll feel so much more validated and inclined to share his life with you, thus nurturing a new, respectful and more mature relationship.
Sheilla XIA2-21
Why we must respect the elders? Now, I write an article about why we must respect the elders. In the past i've written how to teach the child, then now is how to teach your self and show your respect.
Elders have also been through all the phases you are going through and know a little more about the world than you do. However much you disagree with them, give them credit for their experience.
It is likely that you do not agree with the beliefs and the sentiments of your elders. But remember that even this is nothing new. All younger generations have always disagreed with their elders and it is these differences that bring changes in human society.
Nowadays, children fight back, causing even more aggravation. The result is an ugly war of words, with each person trying to out-shout the other.
Another example - according to our tradition, children do not sit on a higher level than their elders. Therefore, if there were no space on sofas or chairs, children would immediately give up their places, and sit on the carpet. In buses and trains, youngsters were expected to give up their places to older people.
This is not a question of who has more rights. It is simply that those who are younger have the strength (or are expected to) bear discomfort, or tolerate unpleasantness, so it is natural to show consideration to those who are older and perhaps, at a slight disadvantage.
And when you do simple things as a mark of respect, elders become aware that youngsters care for them, and they respond with affection and kindness.
Then this is a few steps about how to respect the elders.
- Never refer to them by their first name, unless asked to. This is an important sign of respect. Always call the person by whatever they prefer, whether that is "Miss Smith", "Lily", or even just "Ma'am."
- Listen to their advice. Your elders have lived a lot longer than you, which means they have probably grown very wise or very cranky. Listen to what they have to offer, because if you don't they will mostly likely berate or guilt you. They have the time to do it! Of course, you need not take their advice. Or take it! They are people just like you. Don't treat them otherwise.
- Offer to help. They will appreciate any assistance you're willing to give them. Ask to help carry groceries in, hold a door open, or something else that is simple but genuine.
- Use basic manners. A simple please and thank you can mean a lot. Always be polite and sincere.
- Show an interest in their life. Ask them about their childhood, or how things were in the past. They'll be happy that you're interested, and glad to tell you all sorts of cool stories.
- Be a friend. Offer to read them, or maybe even have a cup of hot chocolate together. The person will love your company, and you'll both find a pal.
- Be patient. With age, people sometimes lose their logic and reasoning. They may be confused as to why you are associating to them. Gently remind them of who you are and your role in their life. They will appreciate the reminder and like you more.
