Everyone always says this but sometimes we don’t practice what we preach. It is especially difficult when you have to tell your children things that aren’t easy for them to understand. This week I had to have a rather difficult discussion with my oldest child about someone who she has always looked up to and admired.

When I approached this conversation with her she was uneasy at first then she quickly lightened up. She is nearing the age when kids start to realize how the world really is and that people will let you down and disappoint you.

I have known for quite some time that this particular family member of hers is not who they pretend to be, and it’s hard because she has them on a pedestal. This week I learned something happened when she was present and I had to be honest with her about how this person really is. I had a conversation with the other party prior to my discussion with my daughter and told them that if they weren’t willing to inform her of the truth that I was going to myself. They agreed but never followed through.

It was not an easy talk to start, but I felt it needed to be done so she can have some answers. Especially because I don’t want her to make the same mistakes. We had a very heartfelt loving conversation and she was happy that I told her. I explained that she is almost 15-years-old and that this is not appropriate behavior for adults. I stressed how much I would like her to learn from their mistakes and not repeat any of them. It is always best to take the initiative and be honest with your children, as much as the information may tarnish their previous thought. They will only respect you for your honesty in the end.