40
out of my house with his head down and shoul-
ders bent, completely depressed.While this story doesn’t have a happy ending, I’m
hoping that by sharing it, parents will not fall
victim to the same mentality, demanding perfection
from their children, especially teenagers. Mike’s
dad should have walked calmly into the house and
asked about the smile on his son’s face, the award
hanging around his neck, and the accomplishments
Mike so desperately wanted to share with him.Immediately after the car accident, Dad should
have explained that mistakes happen, but Mike
was more important than the car. He should have
said how glad he was that his son wasn’t injured.
If he had taken that stance, Mike would probably
have gladly done whatever he could to fix the car,
knowing that his father valued him more.When children, especially teenagers, make a mis-
take, go a little easy; they are not mis-programmedrobots. Their brains are not yet developed enough
to make the right decisions all the time. Don’t let
them think your “stuff” is more precious than they
are. Let your children know they are loved and
valued.Kelly Smith has a BFA in graphic design from BYU. He formed a digital printing business that
served many big companies, including Disney World, Apple, Universal Studios,
Calvin Klein, General Motors, Elton John, Kenny Chesney. Kelly earned a master’s
degree in Internet Marketing and moved his creative talents to that industry, help-
ing companies establish a strong online and website reputation. Kelly loves jeep-
ing, art, religious discussions, public speaking, gardening, hiking, serving the Boy
Scouts and spending time with his family, which includes five children and one
adorable granddaughter. As a professional inspirational speaker, Kelly is available
for a variety of engagements.
Contact him at 775-722-4949 or [email protected].Never let your kids think your “stuff” is
more precious than they are.Photo credit © Steve HalamaJuly/August 2019