I see it a lot. I would be at a friend's house and their mom or dad would come down the stairs. Politely, they would ask if we needed anything or what we wanted for dinner. My friend would naturally lash out at them, accusing them of invading their personal space. The look on their parent's face exemplified anger. They would lash out at their child, explaining how rude and unjust it is to treat them in such a manner in front of a guest. But I can see it. In their eyes there is a tinge of hurt. They won't admit it. Their job is to discipline their children. Their expectations as a parent do not include showing the pain that comes with their own child treating them disrespectfully.
My friend would turn towards me and whisper, "I'm not close with my parents."
That's just something I will never understand.
I've seen it all. There's the child who has a unreasonable curfew and yet, will always show up late just to disregard his parents' wishes. There's the child who is constantly babied and just wants to go out and explore the world. There's the strict parents who do not understand why on earth their child continues to lash out. All of which cannot claim they are close with their parents.
I wouldn't understand that.
I cannot imagine not being close with my parents. When I am heading to a bonfire late at night, I tell them. I tell them if there could be alcohol present there. I tell them if I will be coming home that night or if I am staying at a friend's house. I tell them when I have made it back safely. It isn't because they're strict and debate putting a GPS in my phone. It's because I choose to.
I choose to acknowledge my parents. I choose to be open with them. At the end of the night, I won't be cursed at for lying about where I was. Instead, they'll ask me how it was and tell me they're glad I made it home safe. It's only many of the perks that come with being open with my parents.
When we're going out on a Saturday night and my friends ask me what they should lie to their parents that they're doing, I simply say, "Just tell them." What's the worst that can happen? They can tell you they disagree with your decision, but you're an adult so do whatever you want. At least they will know where you are in case of an emergency.
My parents trust me. I like to believe it's because I am open with them. It's not a demand, it's my own choice. Besides, when everyone doesn't want to listen to what I have to say, my parents always will. Be open with them. They're the only true friends you can rely on.
