I Have a Brace-less (Almost) Highschooler

This week, the following happened:

a. My oldest child got his braces removed.

b. My wife and I attended a “welcome to high school” event with our oldest child.

c. My oldest child received a retainer to wear post-braces.

e. An entire decade was added to my life.

All. In. One. Week.

Honestly, after attending the “welcome to high school” deal, I have never had a stronger desire to home school.

Just kidding. . .

Sort of.

Couple of thoughts after walking around high school. . .

Never have I seen or heard more “honors” options in my life. There are standard options, to be sure. But even those seem to be way out of my league. I walked away thinking, “There is no way I would have made it here! Williamson County school system is NO JOKE.” If this were 1991 when I entered high school, I would have failed. Period. Too hard for me.

From cell phones to computers to smart boards to electives to size to diversity, I cannot even begin to compare my high school experience to today’s.

Before last night, I rolled my eyes at the thought that it was that different.

No more.

It is.

Big time.

In just about every single way. I guess that even the chocolate milk is different.

On a positive note, I am blown away at how students can plan a four year course to prepare them for college, a career, and really their entire future. I would change nothing from my high school experience. I loved it. But what I heard last night made me feel short changed! It’s almost like a mini-college track. Students can select classes and electives that gear them toward their desired career.

Seriously?

When he was born, people would tell us, “don’t blink, he’ll be gone to college before you know it!” Again, I rolled my eyes.

It’s true.

Too true.

Parents, don’t wish the seasons away. Be present. Lean in.

The book of Proverbs was written by a dad to his sons. You can make a pretty good case that the book was written by a dad for his teenage sons.

Not only do I desire wisdom for myself, but I long for my children to walk in wisdom. Not rules. Not a contract. Wisdom.

What advice would you give to a parent on the verge or raising a high schooler?