I was thinking about how assured teenagers are in front of their parents about certain things and how, faced with this person who insists they are right, it can be almost intimidating to a parent. Teenagers can make us feel very unsure about our stance on things. Sometimes I think that I am sure about something and then faced with a teenager telling me I’m wrong, I find myself questioning where I stand. I usually end up sure that I’m still right, but I am left wondering a little. I find this one of the most difficult parts of being a parent to teenagers, particularly with step children, as you over analyse everything. When my daughters were small, I found it easy to have the final word. Now, I am not always sure what that final word should be. So, this poem is for anyone who may sometimes feel the same.
Still not sure
Look at my thigh gap, she says.
I look, at what I’m not sure,
but she is sure it is good.
I am still not sure.
Let’s take a selfie, she says.
Another? Why? I’m not sure,
but she is sure it is needed.
I am still not sure.
She’s wearing make up to school.
Lots of make up. I’m not sure,
but she is sure that she isn’t beautiful without.
I am still not sure.
She wants to be on Facebook.
She’s 12 years old. I’m not sure.
but she is sure because all her friends are on Facebook.
I am still not sure.
Her skirt length, her cropped top,
Her bra straps on display. I’m not sure.
but she is sure because it’s the fashion.
I am still not sure.
Her insisting, her protesting,
Her arguing the toss. I’m not sure.
but she is sure because she knows best.
I am still not sure.
MadHouseMum©