There is something very satisfactory in knowing that you have completed a task well. Self pride and worth, that feeling of accomplishment is a natural mood booster. This last week, my two teens and I went hand in hand. We all “nailed something” as the old saying goes. And, it all happened right before our much needed and deserved Thanksgiving break.
There are often times that one of my teens bursts out of their rooms, yelling joyously, “Mom, I did it, I aced my test.” Or “Mom, I got 90 percent on my research paper.” During those outbursts, I can actually feel the satisfaction that is oozing from their enormous smile. Cheeks are glowing, fists pumping in the air, maybe a dab dance or two. I think you get the picture; nailing something just feels down right awesome for a very simple reason. Hard work pays off.
These last few weeks I have seen both of my teenagers holed up in their rooms at night doing homework. They come out to eat dinner and quickly inhale their food then return back to their “dens” (the term my husband has lovingly deemed appropriate for their hibernation). They are tired and cranky, stressed over wrapping up their final assignments before the trimester ends. They expend so much mental energy during this time, that they are barely able to carry on basic conversations. Dinner table talk doesn’t go much beyond some grunts of, yah and what did you say?
This last week I can actually relate to the mental exhaustion and watery, strained computer eyes. I felt like a teenager, cramming for a test, pressure resting on my shoulders, the stakes high as I took on my first client. Yes, you heard right; I am now officially stepping into the world of college essay consultants. I have often written about the complexities of the college application process, the time that goes in to decision making and the pressure to write that perfect essay. It’s a doozy, literally.
But, unlike my teens, I wasn’t brain dead after completing my edit of my clients essay; I was ecstatic. My smile so big, my mood so bright because I knew I nailed it. I restrained from dabbing, but I mentally did a high five and gave myself a pat on the back.
In hindsight, one could say that learning is a life-long skill, the power of knowledge and words are wonderful, for both teenagers and adults alike. My teens are just starting their journey, mine is in the middle. Finding out where your path will eventually lead you, that’s the exciting part. The tricky part is everything in between.
I’m sure all of you parents and teens out there are also in need of the break that is now upon us, and the delicious Thanksgiving dinner that will soon be baking in our ovens and warming our homes. My teens will be cooking and baking right along side their grandparents and cousins. This year is a true family affair in my house. Here is to enjoying much needed time with family and feeling the love.
I wish you all the happiest of Thanksgivings. May you and your teenagers find time to chill, watch a movie, read a book or hunt down that epic Black Friday shopping deal. Congratulate them on all their hard work thus far this school year. They deserve it.
Gobble, gobble!
Elizabeth Knobel lives in Windsor and is the mother of two teens who give her inspiration everyday. She can reached at [email protected]. On a side note parents; I am officially taking new clients for college essay writing. Email me if you are interested
