The Painful Teenage Years

A very good friend of mine has a daughter who is 14, and I was reminded today of just how much I do not miss being that age.

My friend home schools her daughter, so most of her friends are from her homeschool Co-Op and church.  Well, apparently her friends hang out frequently and don't invite her.  I, of course, don't know all of the whys, but I do know how much it hurts to be the person on the outside.  My heart breaks for her because I know how emotional you are at that age already without others adding fuel to the fire.

If I can stress anything to girls her age, it's not to let others get to you.  Trust me, I know that's easier said that done, but you have to understand that girls that age are all about themselves.  They do not think about how their actions may hurts others, and even if they do, they often don't care.  Keep being who you are, love and forgive.  You are going to meet someone someday who you connect with, and this person will become your best friend.  And even if this friendship does not last into adult hood, it has been given to you for this period of your life for a reason.  This person will help you feel like you belong, like you are fun, and like you are cared about.

I think back to my teenage years and have a few that come to mind.  Most are not my friends anymore, but they were a very important part of my younger years and will always be very special to me. So hang in there young one.  And know that no matter what, your value is not based on what others think of you.  Your value comes from far Greater.

Love you sweet girl.