Photoessay #313 - Danny at Parent Group

My son, Danny, came to speak at Parent Group last night. A really big deal. This intensive parenting group is for parents of acting out teens and young adults. Usually, conventionally tough stuff, drug use, violence, justice issues, verbal abuse, school failure, etc etc. My son, Danny, brought me there when he was 17. Now 25, he's a responsible, independent, young adult. And, as always, smart, talented and articulate. Somehow, I thought it might be time for him to come back and speak to the group. Parents in these difficult situations LOVE to hear what the now adult teens have to say about their experiences...and how they felt about the actions that their families took.

So we talked it up a bit, I knew we would have a good turnout. And we did, over 40 people. I didn't really know what he would say. He spoke without notes and (I am not surprised) spoke clearly, insightfully and articulately about his experiences and his life. Very well received, everyone was delighted that he had come. Many told him so after the talk. Our part-time executive director invited to take him to lunch next week and he accepted.

For myself, it brought back my feelings about how intelligent and talented he really is. That he could achieve a lot in conventional ways. Because he is so darned smart and poised.