Tests, PSAT, ACT, procrastination, determination.

Last night, our son had to study for a big Chemistry test. Now, when I say study, that mean't he actually had to work problems that challenged him and it took more than just a couple of minutes. Our son also had to memorize two poems for English, he was frustrated that he had so much work to do in an evening. Last night, our daughter had a big project due in English and a test for today. She, on the other hand had completed her project last Sunday afternoon, was not stressed in any way, and had plenty of time to study for her test. Her cell phone was ringing off, with her friends calling to ask how she had done her paper and such. She just kicked back, answered questions and enjoyed her evening. Of course, a parent isn't supposed to compare children. Of course, I was dying to say to our son, "why do you wait to the last minute?" Of course, I wanted to say, "look at your sister, she isn't stressed because she did not wait and let stuff pile up." Of course, I had to say something, so I reminded him he had to take the ACT test on Saturday. Oh boy, that was the wrong thing to say. The visions of sleeping late just bounced out of his head. His Saturday was ruined. Life can be difficult for teenagers, but this is a necessity for growing up and developing character. Grades are not everything, but EFFORT is life-changing. Sure one can put off projects and still come out okay, but this is a character flaw that will follow one through life and cause difficulties unnecessarily. Organization is a key factor for life. Sure, one can make it through without having structure, but I don't want to see the fall-out when a crisis occurs. Organization must be learned just like information for a test. It is a choice. It requires effort and determination. One may not always make an A, in a class, but one can ALWAYS know what is due and be prepared. As our son is lamenting over his ruined Saturday, I explained to him the fact that no day will suit him to take a huge test, just do it and get it over with, then I threw in a little nagging about his procrastination. He cut a grin my way and responded, "wait until I get my test back to see if this is working or not." Of course, I'll be waiting.