Sarah was preparing dinner for her family, but her daughters friends ate everything before anyone else could!
My daughter, Emily, is the life of the party. Her warmth and cheerfulness draw friends like a magnet. In our home in Manchester, theres always a crowd of kids around hernot just from her class, but all ages. Im glad shes so sociable, but lately, things have spiralled out of control, and Im at my wits end.
It all started when Emily began inviting friends over regularly. Winter was harsh, and I didnt mind them playing indoors. At first, shed serve tea and biscuits, put on music, or make up games. I was touched by her hospitality. But now, she brings home strangers Ive never metand their behaviour leaves me speechless.
Last week, I came back from work to find two teenagers in the kitchen. They were devouring the beef stew Id made for two days, straight from the potnot a spoonful left! They piled dirty plates in the sink and left without so much as a goodbye. I was furious. We had nothing left for dinner, and I was too exhausted to cook again.
I tried explaining to Emily that she couldnt invite strangers and offer them our food. Biscuits or sweets, finebut whats in the fridge is for the family. Emily flushed with anger, called me stingy, then slammed her bedroom door so hard the windows rattled. She locked herself in and refused to speak to me. I felt guilty, but what else could I do?
The next evening, I made mashed potatoes and pork chops, called everyone to the table. Emily refused to eat, as if I were her enemy. Before leaving for work the following morning, I warned her, “Theres enough for two days. Ill be home latedont expect me to cook.” Yet when I returned after eleven, I found my husband, James, frying potatoes in an empty kitchen. Emilys friends had cleared everything again. Shed locked herself away, offering no explanation.
Im at a loss. How do I make her understand? She wont listen, hurling absurd accusations: “Youre selfishyou hate my friends!” Is this just teenage rebellion? Have James and I gone wrong somewhere? I dont know how to handle this. My heart breaksI want my daughter happy, but I cant accept this chaos.
Im not tight-fisted, but our budget is stretched thin. James and I work ourselves ragged to feed our family. I slave over hearty meals, only for strangers to reap the benefits. My mum says, “You need to lay down the law!” But I wont resort to harshness. I want to resolve this calmlybut how? Emily avoids me, and I feel like Im losing my own child.
What would you do in my place? How do I make her see her actions hurt us, without crushing her spirit? How do I set boundaries so our home doesnt become a free-for-all? Have you been through this? Share your adviceIm at the end of my rope.
In the end, I realised kindness without limits teaches no responsibility. Sometimes, the greatest love means saying nonot to punish, but to guide. A home thrives on respect, not just generosity.
