So many lessons, so little time

It seems like there's so much to teach and I get frustrated wondering where to begin and where to have patience and where to trust.  I had a great revelation tonight that I hope helped Alex to begin to understand who he is and what his responsibilities are. 

We've been having trouble getting Alex to pay attention to the details as we used to say in the Army.  Leslie's been pushing participation in a great event and then getting frustrated when he doesn't step up to the plate as a leader. I get frustrated still doing the family laundry and evening dishes with a fourteen year old in the house. 

I realized that we may be piling too much on his plate.  So while we folded laundry I talked to him about the necessity of standing up for himself and not agreeing to do everything we recommend.  I told him he needs to begin to look at the totality of the commitment.

I know it's hard for a fourteen year old.  Oh another insight into how whacked we can be as parents.  Last night was parent teacher conferences at Park Hill South.  Alex has all As and one B.  He  had a 97% in his Biology class and all Leslie and I noticed was an F on a homework assignment.  I could tell even the teacher couldn't believe we zeroed in on the single F and seemingly didn't notice the 97% at the top.  I guess she is unaware of our campaign to get Alex to notice the details. 

Sometimes I have to just laugh at myself - and then cry a bit for Alex. Poor kid! I wouldn't trade him for the world!