I’d like to think this is for all who work with and love those who are on their way to adulthood.
A Blessing for Those With Teenagers
May you greet the day and your child before noon. May you laugh out loud at something your daughter says, or chuckle at the dry wit of your son. May you touch their shoulder in affection, or wrap them in a bear hug, or ruffle their hair in such a way that they know of your love, and approval.
May you ask for calm when your temper rises, hot and assaulted by some thing they say in anger, or ignorance, or foolish pride.
May you remember that you are the adult.
May you remember that you are a small shepherd, carried along by The Great Shepherd, who shows you the way. So may you be able to discern when to speak and when to wait, or pray, or press into what needs pressing, and what can be left alone.
And when you discern well, may your face shine. And when you discern badly, may you lift your head and begin again, remembering it is not those who are well who need a Physician.
May you be met with a smile— flickered or smirked or toothy and braced,
And may you offer yours.
May you be a giver— of your time, your patience, your quick apologies,
of your money, your clean kitchen, your Saturday morning, your late evening,
of your curiosity, your long-suffering, your hope— with no expectation of returns.
And may this giving go down deep into the life of your child, who is no longer a child.
May you leave it there, this giving regardless of outcome, and trust that it is good.
I think I might need to print this off and hang it in my bathroom so I see it every single morning.
Nailed it! Bless you as you lead those teens!