the    sides

You’re 13 - that magical age when you’re no longer a kid. It’s awesome. The truth of the matter is that nothing really changes - it just FEELS like it does. But maybe that’s enough, you know?

You’re on your way to becoming a woman. And to tell you the truth - I don’t know a whole lot about that journey. In fact…you can put what I know in a thimble.

But I do know a lot about growing up. And making mistakes. I’m an expert on those things. As you enter your teen years - I want to give you some “unclely” advice for the next 5 years. Ready? I promise I’ll be quick.

1. Laugh a lot. Over the next few years you (and your parents) are going to be tempted to take things a bit more seriously than needed. So learn to laugh early and often. (You’re pretty good at this already. Keep it up.)

2. Make some mistakes….then own them. You are going to make some mistakes. When you do, don’t try to blame someone else. That’s a shortcut to immaturity. Just own it. Take your licks and pay attention to the lesson.

3. Force yourself to hug your parents every now and then. I’d explain why but I promised to be quick…just trust me on this.

4. Never pass up an opportunity to do something crazy with and for God. Even if mom and dad don’t get it. (In your case, I think they will. But just in case they don’t….keep chasing Jesus.

And last but not least….

There are going to be days when you think your parents are complete idiots. You’re going to be right. BUT remember a couple of things before you unload your best sarcastic retort. Number 1 - they weren’t always this way and quite frankly raising you and your siblings had more than a little to do with it.

Number 2 - they probably aren’t all that pleased with you either at the moment. Exercise some more maturity in that moment and instead of zinging with sarcasm, treat them with the same amount of grace that you’d want to be treated with. If you do that - I’m guessing that you’re going to get to see God do some pretty awesome stuff your life.

And don’t worry, I’m coming along for the ride so I’m never going to be that far away!!

I love you.