In my teenage years, my relationship with my parents was awful. I felt they didn't understand me, support me or even care about me. I remember my mom telling me many times, I love you, but I don't like you very much. I thought I would never "get" my dad, and I could never imagine us having a relationship or spending time together for fun!
Even after I left for college, our relationship was rocky, and somewhat awkward, I think it took a year of me being away from home before it could start healing.
Fast forward to now.... about 3 1/2 years later... I really like my parents. They have become such an important part of my everyday life, I find it odd how far we've come.
If I don't talk to my mom at least 3 times a week, I realize I miss her. We don't even have to talk about anything important, just her voice is all I need, plus she is great at letting me vent. I have started to appreciate all that she is, as a mom and a person. She is a really great person, she does so much for others, and always has time for others. She is so caring and compassionate. I hope I can be more like her.
My dad and me have become best buddies. This makes me laugh so much, I never thought it ws possible! I really like spending time with him, and often call him just to run out and about with me because I really enjoy his company. He is the funniest guy you will ever meet, and half the time I am in stiches from his comments and jokes. He also does a lot for others, especially me lately. He has helped us so much in our new house. Moving furniture, putting things together, and answering a ton of questions. We really seem to like the same things so it is fun to go bargain shopping with him, and he lets me go on and on about whatever I feel like babbling about.
I wish I would have known how things would have turned out. Maybe if I had not been so selfish in my ego-centric teenage years, we could of had this great relationship sooner. But maybe it is the hardships we faced of not liking each other much that made us appreciate the people we have become.
I have a 17 year old brother and 20 year old sister and I see how they often don't appreciate what my parents do for them. I sometimes want to shake them and make them understand. But then I realize I was at the same place not to long ago, and you have to grow and learn from these times to fully appreciate a relationship. I just hape it comes sooner for them, because my parents are some of the greatest people I know, and I wouldn't want them to miss out.