Where Did Your Sweet Little Child Go?

By Kimberly Snider
Missionary to the Philippines

CBN.com - “Listen, my son, accept what I say, and the years of your life will be many” (Proverbs 4:10, NIV)

Have you ever listened to your teenager and wondered, “Where did my sweet little child go?” Have you tried to have a real conversation with your teenage son or daughter and given it up as hopeless?

At that moment, you suddenly realized that your children weren't interested in talking to you or listening to what you had to say. You realized that they inhabit their own world. Whether you are able to enter that world depends greatly on the relationship you had with them before they became teenagers.

When children are young, they love talking to their parents. They want the extra attention. If we give it to them, if we spend time developing a quality relationship, that relationship will last through the rough teen years. It may emerge somewhat different than it was, but it will endure.

If your children are already teenagers, and you are dissatisfied with the relationship you have with them, don't give up. Remember that inside that grown-up body is the little child who adored you. Take them out for lunch and try for a new start! Tell them you'd like your relationship to be better and apologize for past mistakes.

It may take time to rebuild a relationship with your teen, but it is worth it. Keep trying! Ask God what you can do to reach into your teenager's world.

Kimberly Snider works at Asia Pacific Media Ministries where she coordinates publications and advertising as well as produces many of the instructional materials that accompany video teaching series. Kimberly ministers at women's retreats and media training workshops. Kim is a former schoolteacher. She has a BA from the University of Illinois and a MA from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville.