I had the privilege of going to some great concerts with my 17-year-old daughter, Rachel, this summer. I thought it was a little strange that she chose to take me–her mom–instead of maybe a friend. So I thought I would interview her about why she made this choice.
Mom: Why do you take me to concerts?
Teen: I enjoy your presence. Plus, you pay for parking. And hotels.
Mom: And meals. You enjoy my presence? That’s nice. A lot of teenagers don’t enjoy spending time with their parents.
Teen: Yeah. You weren’t no “cry it out” mom. Those babies learn their mothers and fathers don’t care about them.
Mom: What are you learning about?
Teen: Psychology!
Mom: Ok, so back to concerts, which is where we started. You bought the tickets to the concerts yourself. How do you feel about that?
Teen: Great! It means that I am currently in a place where I can afford concert tickets, and I know that when I go to college and start having debt, I won’t be able to do that. And sometimes it just feels good to buy stuff! And I got them really cheap from seatgeek.com.
Mom: Well, I’m glad you chose me to be your concert-going partner. I enjoyed them. Am I allowed to tell people who we saw?
Teen: Mom! I already posted on Instagram. See? Niall Horan. Harry Styles. It’s always a selfie with me and you.
Mom: Because last year it was a secret that you liked those artists.
Teen: I’m aware.
Mom: Why isn’t it a secret anymore?
Teen: Eh. I just discovered I like it, and so what?
Mom: I’m glad you’re willing to be open about your love of One Direction. You shouldn’t have to hide your fandom, just because people think the things teenage girls like aren’t important.
Teen: People don’t value teenage girls’ opinions. They’re not allowed to wear their Ugg boots, or get their Pumpkin Spice Lattes…
Mom: I value your opinion. And I like pumpkin spice lattes.
Teen: I hate them. I just don’t like coffee. But people say it’s a “typical girl” thing.
Mom: Have you bought any more concert tickets?
Teen: Yes! Ed Sheeran.
Mom: Great! I like Ed Sheeran!
Teen: I’m taking my sister.
I hope that you also enjoy activities with your child–concerts, rock climbing, football games, chess tournaments. It’s nice to stay connected through their interests as the kids get older. And hey, sometimes they buy YOU the ticket.
I think it’s fabulous that you enjoyed some concerts with your daughter! I would love to take mine to one. You are clearly a wonderful Mom! Nice article! I like how your girls seem to be independent thinkers!