Over the years, I’ve read parenting articles that say parents shouldn’t try to be friends with their children. I do believe in disciplining your children and I don’t believe you should try to be a teenager with your teenager; but I’m just thinking, my kids are the best friends I could ask for (in addition to my husband, of course.)
I joke and say I gave birth to my son so that he could raise us. He was born to two young inexperienced parents and lived to tell about it! I affectionately refer to him as our son-daddy who tells us to calm down, be careful, and act right. He is sensible, caring, calming, faithful and dependable.
And I laugh and say I gave birth to my daughter so that I could make my own best friend. I’ve always had good friends, but just never got into a bestie-girlfriends-for-life group. What I do have is a daughter-friend that shares my heart, my thoughts, my sillies, my frustrations, and my sorrows.
As the result of “bad parenting,” I have immediate access to two trusted friends. I trust their judgment, I respect their expertise, and I understand their perspective. They make my burdens lighter, my decisions easier, and my faith stronger.
It’s just like a gracious God to give two wonderful children who are also two wonderful friends. I’m so glad we didn’t miss out on their friendships by being “good” parents.
Featured photo: Our family pretending like we’re “somebody” with our front row tickets at a Georgia Tech basketball game. (2000)
just thinking 
I hear this false dichotomy put forth often as well! My son is still quite young, but I don’t think that it’s impossible–or inadvisable–to be the one who guides and disciplines and a friend.
I’m hopeful I’ll be able to describe my kids as friends someday. 🙂
Thanks for response…I’m sure you will!
Terrific…as always!