*November 14th* (with video)

During World War II six Navy pilots left their aircraft carrier on a mission. After searching the seas for enemy submarines, they tried to return to their ship shortly after dark. But the captain had ordered a blackout of all lights on the ship. Over and over the frantic pilots radioed, asking for just one light so they could see to land. But the pilots were told that the blackout could not be lifted. After several appeals and denials of their request, the ship's operator turned the switch to break radio contact--and the pilots were forced to ditch in the ocean.

As a child or teenager, you have many things that happen in your life which are sometimes confusing. It is easy to become frustrated, impatient, even angry. Yet, as you go through changes and try to make sense of the many experiences you go through, remember it is important that you do all you can to create and nurture a fundamental respect and honor for your parents or guardians. Yes, they are not perfect, but if you look in your heart, you know they love you and want the best for you.

Remind yourself that you might someday be as one of the planes in our story, who were circling back to find it's ship for landing safely. Taking advantage of your mother's compassion or your father's respect for you, no matter what levels that might be, could leave them at some point wanting to just give up all hope of helping you.

Consider that, if you happen to believe there is a God, then it is obvious that He gave you the parents or guardians you have, not only so that they would learn how to be your parents, but also so that you would learn how to best be their child. The coping skills you develop by doing this, will prepare you for the challenges that will come upon you through your years as an adult. Believe me, the way you respond to them now, will greatly influence how you will react if you should become a parent yourself and have a kid that is like you!

Anyway, sometime when you are alone in the quiet, take a moment to consider these things. You might find that the thoughts will help you greatly.

[Written by Jim Hogue, MA, MFTI /
Supervisor: Peter Mosgofian, MA, MFTI ]

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