I just got off the phone with my precious 17 year old Eric, who is needing his second "favor" of the day - in other words an errand that involves me driving something to him because he forgot it. I'm getting short on patience...

Many of you will think that I've made my own bed and now need to lie in it.  A seventeen year old doesn't just all of the sudden develop the need to be bailed out of irresponsible acts.  I will plead guilty to being the princess of bail outs.  But in my own defense, I was raised by the Queen!  My mom, despite having five kids, came to our rescue more times than I can even remember.  Forgotten lunches, assignments left on the counter, soccer cleats left in the trunk - you name it, she likely had to deliver it at one time or another.  Somehow, all of her children grew up to be responsible citizens.


I'm gearing up for a good talk on responsibility when Eric comes home tonight from his night class at City College.  It's ironic - in some respects he's the world's most responsible kid, but at other times he can be quite forgetful!

Does this happen in your home, and if so what's your take?  Should I "just say no" to future bail outs, or continue my wishy washy ways?

About the Author

Lisa M. Hendey

Lisa M. Hendey

Lisa M. Hendey is the founder of CatholicMom.com, a bestselling author and an international speaker. A frequent radio and television guest, Hendey travels internationally giving workshops on faith, family, and communications. Visit Lisa at LisaHendey.com or on social media @LisaHendey for information on her speaking schedule or to invite her to visit your group, parish, school or organization. Visit Lisa's author page on Amazon.com.