My mom probably just had a conniption when she read the title of this article. My dad probably cried. You're welcome, guys; I know you've been waiting for this for over twenty-one years now. And finally, here it is: you were right.

I hate myself for having to admit it, but it's true. Almost every single piece of advice you have ever given me has benefitted me, even though my first instinct was to ignore it. I don't know what it is about us kids, but we automatically assume that whatever comes out of our parents' mouths is going to be annoying, or involve us doing some sort of chore. So, we try our hardest not to listen to you. Thankfully, this is not something that I have only recently realized. I've been keeping this secret from you for a long time now... I've known you were right all along.

Every single time I leave the house, my dad yells drive slow! as I pull away. If he doesn't think I heard him, he'll text whichever friend I'm with and say tell Sara to drive slow. I roll my eyes every single time, and usually respond I know, you tell me everyday! with more attitude than necessary. He probably has no idea that I actually take this advice.

I'm sure this is true for everyone reading this article. If you can't think of one instance in which you have taken your parents' advice and cursed them for being right, you're lying. I apologize that it has taken me so long to finally write this article - but I apologize even more that it has taken me so long to finally tell you that you've been right all along. I'm so thankful for all of the advice you have given me, because none of it has ever failed. I even find myself giving other people the advice that I've learned from you.

So, to all of you kids who haven't yet figured out that you should be listening to your parents, here's what I have to say to you: stop trying to be cool, and start helping yourself out by taking their advice. They're right.