Keep Up! Relationships Q & A Random Humor Just for Kids
Are Teenagers the Work of the Devil?
Dear Dr. Julia,
I have two teenage children, aged 12 and 14.
The 14-year-old is pretty much convinced she's royalty and will shout down anyone who questions her princess-ness.
The 12-year-old begins every day with the determination to annoy someone until they yell at him, then he gets bent out of shape when he gets yelled at.
My question is: Are these signs of demonic possession? Should I call a priest or just sell them both to the first circus I see?
I have always said that if you really wanted to sell your children, you'd have to do it while they were very young... before they developed the ability to talk.
There is a massive depreciation factor (more than that of a new car driven off the lot) to consider.
And the ROI? The longer you feed, clothe and educate children, the less likely you are to see any profit whatsoever - in fact, the more likely you are to suffer loss. It's just basic economics.
You also seem to forget the circus industry. Although they do use whips and chairs (for lions and tigers) and chaotic clowns seemingly running amok, these scenes are actually well choreographed and disciplined - something a teenager may not be capable of.
So to sell your teenagers is highly unlikely. You may actually have to pay someone (and well) to take them at this point.
I believe that you are most likely stuck with your teenagers for now.
