Could you help your dad, this is too much for him to do alone.

Today, with the 70 degree weather, people came out of the woodwork to do yardwork. My husband had borrowed a super-duper, blaster, pressure washer from a friend at church, and he started washing our deck. Before he started the task, he had entered our son's room to inform him he would be washing the driveway as his Saturday chore. Well, let's just say our son had little good to say about this idea and reacted pretty teenagery, (probably not a word.) Anyway, my husband started the job. I waited a while and then I approached our son. "You know your dad can't do all of this stuff on his own, his shoulders will start hurting and not to mention his bad knees. I think he could really use your help. I know you won't get as sore as your dad." I saw the sparkle in his eye. He smiled, "I know mom, I was going to go out there as soon as I finish this game. I knew he couldn't do all this stuff today with out me." Amazing the difference when someone feels needed, not just free labor for hire. I think it is respectful for a parent to approach tasks to be done by their children with the helpful approach not the demanding approach. Think about the last time someone really needed your help. How did that make you feel? I always feel validated, respected, when someone needs my help. Now, think about your child or teenager. Don't they need to learn how to approach people with respect and dignity? What have you won if you demand something? What impression have you made if you treat your child no different than the world will someday? I think it matters to be the best manager, supervisor, boss, at HOME. I have always known, the best boss is the one who holds all the power, yet never has to use it because the staff are motivated out of respect. Who knows? Our leadership skills at home may make better bosses for tommorrow. Oh, and as for the driveway...our son did a great job. He even smiled while he did it.