Dear Rosie:
My son has just reached 18 and is about to graduate high school. Rather than going to college, he announced that he was going to join the Marines. I am terrified for him, and am afraid that if he goes to Iraq he won’t come back. How do I handle this?
Signed,
Paranoid Patriot

Dear Paranoid:
You have a right to be frightened for your son. As his parent, you even have a right to voice your opinion, to tell him of the potential dangers, to let him know that you fear for his life. Talk to your son openly. Tell him how much you love him and that you want the best for him; that what he wants to do is noble and brave, but that you would like him to talk to someone who has served in Iraq, and then make his final decision.

If he honors your request, and still decides to enlist, honor his decision and pray, as the Bible says, without ceasing. Ask God to protect him and leave him in His care. After all, he was God’s child before the foundation of the world, and was only given to you for a short time. Now, you must return him to the One who made him.

Give your son the tools to make a wise decision, and leave the rest up to him and to God.

Dear Rosie:
I have two children, a daughter who is 10 and a son who just turned 12. Last week, my daughter became “a woman.” We went to the store and bought her the necessities, which my son promptly uncovered. I don’t know how to address this issue with my son without embarrassing my daughter.
Concerned in Clermont

Dear Concerned:
A twelve year old boy does not need to know the secrets of the “Feminine Mystique.” Tell him that there are certain things that do not need explanation, and this is one of them. When he is mature enough to listen, all will be explained to his satisfaction. I believe that, at this point, your daughter’s need for privacy should override your son’s ‘need to know.’ The focus should be on her, making her feel comfortable inside her changing body, and letting her know that you will protect the ‘secret’ that all women share. This is a great time for you to bond with your daughter. Embrace the opportunity!