Caring > Cool

“Can we do the cards now?”

Every Thursday night in our home looks the same: we make tacos and talk.

We debrief our lows and highs from the week, and then each person gets a card with a
question on it… and we all share our reply.

One thing that has amazed me is how much our boys yearn for this time! In fact, our teen is
always the one asking when we can do the cards! And if we can do more than one!
Sometimes I get intimidated being a bonus mom to a teen.

Half of the things he says I don’t understand. (Thank goodness for Google). I often wonder
how I can relate to him.

What I have realized, though, is that I don’t have to be or do anything different. I just have to
care.

I think this is a common misconception that we have with the next generation. That we can’t
understand or relate to them. Or that we have to totally change who we are to reach them.
When really- it’s pretty simple.

Are we asking them questions? Listening? Caring? Supporting? Providing safe
environments?

What our research shows is, more than anything, the next generation is looking for real
connection. And to be heard, understood and known. Like we all are!

My challenge is to invest in someone younger than you!

And as you reach out, don’t be intimidated. Just be you.

Caring, after all, is much more important than being cool.