Suppose you had just five new principles to teach a teenager. Which would you teach?
Here are some suggestions:
- opportunity cost (e.g., watching television is expensive)
- Liberal values have destructive personal consequences (e.g., Hollywood Values)
- There is more deceit in the world than you expect
- Trying an addictive activity is like stepping on a slippery slope: you may be unable to save yourself from destruction
- If you are with someone who commits a crime, the law may hold you fully responsible
- Bad ideas will be suggested to you by nearly everyone, including yourself, except a bad idea will never come from both your parents
- Much of our behavior is governed by habits. It is therefore critical to consciously cultivate good habits, and to work to overcome bad habits. Good habits don't just happen.
- Constant questioning of authority, on the Liberal notion that authority is necessarily wrong, is counter-productive and destructive. Respect experience and the wisdom that it brings, and you will benefit from it.
- Resist peer pressure to do things which conflict with the values your family and church taught you.
- It is fine to say No: say No to temptation, to illegal drugs, to underage drinking, to crime, to pre-marital sex and indecent behaviour.
- Pre-marital virginity isn't 'square' or boring. It's cool to keep yourself for 'the one'.
- You are the master of your bodily impulses, and not vice-versa.
- You might think it's fun to make decisions. But if you make a decision and you decide incorrectly then it’s your fault. Your friends told you? Your fault. Your government told you? Your fault. Your spouse told you? Your fault. I told you? Still your fault. Welcome to responsibility.
- It is OK to ask for help. Particularly from your parents as they are there to guide you.
- Most adults turn to prayer in times of need. It's not any easier being a teenager than an adult, and prayer is available for your benefit. Don't fool yourself into thinking you're above it.
- It is not winning, but being able to take part and give it your best that is most important.
- Obedience is the path to independence and maturity.