We can be friends!

Not sure if you've heard, but Kelly Ripa doesn't care if her daughter doesn't like her. Several times in the past couple of weeks I have seen social media headlines about this particular news story. I love Kelly Ripa, I often listen to her bubbly talk show while I am cleaning or checking my email, but for some reason this article has bothered me. Now wait, hear me out. I know, I know . . . it's our job to protect our kids, we are their authority, they are to honor and obey us. I get it. But, being that I have four daughters, I know a thing or two about mother/daughter relationships. And guess what, you can be their friend and you should care if they like you. As a matter of fact, it is okay to want to be their best friend. 

I actually googled "how to be a good friend" and came across this article: http://www.wikihow.com/Be-a-Good-Friend. 

What does it take to be a good friend? 

Being Trustworthy

Be dependable

Apologize when you've made a mistake

Be Honest

Be Loyal

Be Respectful

Be Selfless

Be a Good Listener

Give Thoughtful Advice

Give Space When Need

Be There for Them 

Be Forgiving

The Bible tells us in Exodus 20:12 to “Honor your father and your mother.” 

The Hebrew translation for the word “honor” means “to give weight to.” 

If you want your kids to give weight to your opinions and actions (hold your opinions 

and actions at such a high regard they let your response factor into their decisions), 

then you need to exhibit the characteristics of a TRUE friend. There will be times as a parent you will need to discipline, to use your authority and to allow your child to face consequences of their actions, but all of this can be done while still maintaining a 

friendship with your child. When you establish and maintain a friendship with your child

 they will come to you for advice, they will listen to your voice of reason, they will obey 

your rules and the will understand that you have their best interest at heart. You will be

 the one they come to about relationships, about temptations and about desires of

 their heart. You will be the one they can't wait to come home to and share the news 

of their day. So moms and dads, it’s okay. . .really, enjoy your kids, laugh with them, 

have a pillow fight, have heart to heart talks, chat in the car and thank the 

Lord for every moment your child allows you to be their friend!