It's Not Just You (or Your Teen)!

Ugh! Whatever! Leave Me Alone! *Eyeroll* I Don't Care! *Silence*

If it seems like these are the only responses you can get out of your teens these days, you are not alone! In the last 30 days alone, I've chatted with most of you about dealing with that oh-so-common-teenage angst and attitude. And no, it isn't that girls are harder either; It happens with all kids to some extent. Why are they so moody? Where did this come from? What happened to your sweet, precious, baby cherub? I'll be honest, I don't have the answers. BUT I do have a few things to encourage you and PLEASE check out the resource list I created in the parent/caregiver section below:

• It's Not Just You: Again, about 85% of youth families have reached out to me in the past 30 days with some issue around their youth's attitude. This is normal. You are not failing.

• Don't Take the Bait! Rebellion, attitude, sass, or whatever you want to call it, is very normal at this age. Hormones are rampant, their brains are physically changing, and personalities are forming. At the tween/teen age, they are literally trying to test boundaries, and they may include testing your care/concern. Vent to other adults, but only match their energy with even more love and patience.

• Trouble Won't Last Always: It's said that trouble won't last always, and it's true! Typically, by the time they're 16/17 the rapid changes and mood swings will calm some. Keep communications open, and trust the seeds you planted to slowly but steadily grow. You're baby is still in there I promise. If nothing else, know that in my almost 2 years serving the youth, I have NEVER had any of them act out during youth time. Your teachings are still cultivating inside their hearts and minds. They are taking in your lessons, and figuring this thing we call life out.

"These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” - John 16:33 NKJV

If Jesus can overcome the world, Jesus can help you overcome your youth's attitude! You are in my prayers - Rev. Tara Gibbs

Nov. 6th

Guest Artist: Lo'Vonia Parks

Lo’Vonia Parks is an illustrator, caricaturist and mixed media artist in Charlotte, NC. Her work draws on a thought-provoking mix of history and pop culture to tell innovative and slyly humorous visual stories. She will lead a hands on project to show youth how visual art can be used for expressions of gratitude.

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Nov. 13th

Nature Gratitude Walk

Feeling antsy, restless, or even bored during worship service? Join us for a unique worship opportunity centered around a nature walk on Sunday at 10am as a form of alternate worship and connection with God. Let's be more intentional about our appreciation and gratitude for creation and the environment. This event is sponsored by the NC Wildlife Federation. More info, contact Paula Fricke or Rev. Carrie Veal.

NO RSVP NEEDED

Nov. 20th

Guest Musician: John Bambach

John will show and tell a bit about his unique guitar collection, how he started his music hobby at age 17 during the mid 1960’s, a period in which folk music reflected concerns about social justice. With the youth, he will play music that is related to the idea of gratitude and discuss music of the 60s.

New Resource List

Check out this growing list of resources to support you and your youth. From spiritual, to mental health, to just local fun, we are growing this list to be more helpful to you! You may also share resource suggestions with Rev. Tara by email.

Did You Know Seasonal Effective Disorder Affects Teens Too?

As winter approaches, some of us may experience the “winter blues” – feeling sad from shortening days, climbing into bed earlier and resenting waking up on dark mornings. That’s different than Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a term used to describe a type of depression that follows a seasonal pattern.

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