I know I know this is not new; but it is new to me. The first time you must repeat to your parents what you said, the first time you see that although you thoroughly explained what is needed, they still made an interpretation of their own. They keep a little piece of your words and make up the rest.
What do you do about it?
Firstly be patient. Nothing good is coming if you argue or yell. Instead, you create frustration and nothing good comes out of that…
Secondly, repeat what you want a million times. Yes, I know it is difficult. But I have found out in my life that people generally can be entertained. The more you repeat something, the more it is likely to be remembered. If not, make a note and give it to them.
Thirdly, be loving. I don’t know about you, but I was very angry as a child and the same as a teenager and I now regret it. I was so nervous while growing up which continued in my earlier adolescence. Only lately have I tried to be calmer. Perhaps it helps that I generally am a patient person…or perhaps through years I become maturer and more understanding. But I know for a fact that politeness is returned. Rudeness is also returned.
Fourthly, try to keep them busy. I always believed that if a person retires, then the decline is inevitable. For a mind to be alert, it must be busy. My mother retired early, at 52 years of age, due to health problems. I must say that although she generally is rested, nonetheless, now in her 70s the mind is not as alert as it was 20 years ago. Give them errands. Even a play with cards keeps their minds up and about. But don’t wear them out.
The only thing for sure is: they are not going to change; you are.
