Last week, my son, Lucas, took his driving test. As we arrived at the testing site, he meticulously adjusted the car into the parking spot and got out twice to ensure it was perfectly aligned. For teenagers, appearances are paramount. Their self-esteem hinges on how they believe others perceive them, regardless of their actual accomplishments.
It doesn’t matter if they’re the top students, the rebellious ones, or the ones who act indifferent; all teens share a common preoccupation: What do people think of me? And few things can derail their carefully curated image like a mom who’s a little too present.
I have three such teenagers residing under my roof. As they’ve matured, I’ve realized that my behavior can either uplift or completely ruin their vibe. Honestly, I couldn’t care less about their public image, especially if it means embarrassing them.
When Lucas drove off with the instructor for his parallel park test, I stood by, snapping photos. He was furious—not because I intended to share those photos online, but simply because I was there. Tough luck, Lucas. As his mother, I’ve earned that right after all I’ve done for him.
I’ve put in the hours: changing diapers, nursing through sore nipples, and even sacrificing my personal comfort in public restrooms. I’ve gone through great lengths, including using my drink as an improvised toilet on long trips, all for my kids. So yes, I will take that picture when they’re cuddled up on the couch.
The photo I want on Mother’s Day will happen, no matter how long it takes to get it right. When I was ecstatic about Lucas getting his permit and driving his siblings around, I wanted to celebrate that day. The first day of school? Documented. If we’re shopping at their favorite store and they insist I keep my distance to avoid being seen with them, it’s payback time.
If we happen to drive through McDonald’s and one of their friends is working, and they beg me not to talk to them, I’ll be sure to turn it into a spectacle. My motherly instincts don’t shut off just because they find me annoying. They might not need reminders about snacks or bathroom breaks, but I will continue to express how much I love them every single day.
I take pride in my children’s achievements and want the world to know. When I drop them off at school, I’m not going to hold back my affection, even if it draws unwanted attention. They’ll hear how much I care, and that’s non-negotiable.
Once we become moms, our brains change—we love fiercely, which translates into loud cheers at games, straightening collars, and showering them with compliments. They may pretend it’s too much, but I’m convinced that my love is something they can handle.
After all, they’ve embarrassed me more than once, so a little friendly revenge is in order. If you’d like to read more about similar parenting experiences, check out our other blog post.
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In summary, while embarrassing our teens may seem like a rite of passage, it’s really about celebrating and cherishing the bond we share as parents. We’ve earned the right to show our love, no matter how much they might squirm.
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