Hi, CV!

For the second time, my credit card has been compromised. First it was Target, a respected international corporation, and now it’s an unidentified source. It’s nothing that I did. I created a password that was rated difficult that was supposed to keep hackers out. So while all available safeguards were in place, outside forces jeopardized my economic security. After a minor grousing session, I await another new card, password and PIN and make a list of who needs to know my new credit card information.

This situation got me thinking about underage drugs and alcohol use, and how parents handle it when their good kids do bad things. We do all we can to educate ourselves and our children. We live in safe communities and know our neighbors and our children’s friends. Since our kid hasn’t gotten into trouble and does well in school, we think they never will fail. We’re confident that our family’s security system cannot be breached. Until the day it is. Ouch!

You feel let down, disappointed and wonder if your faith in your child was misplaced. You’re aching because you want the best for your child, and you hope this is a bump in the road but fear it’s AC/DC’s “Highway to Hell.”

If you’re like me, you start asking questions. Is this the result of my loose parenting or my spouse’s rigid style? Is there any way to pin this on our parents who made us this way? I’m no expert so maybe I’m treading into waters too deep for my expertise. Yet, through this job and my academic training, I know how to find answers. Here’s what I came up with that works for me: be the adult. It’s not about you. It’s about the child who needs help; therefore, think about what’s best for her/him. You’re the parent; take action! Communication is key. If you have been talking to your child, it’s probably time to broaden the conversation. If you haven’t, it’s time to start talking. If you need help, there are terrific resources listed on our website.

Good luck!

Suzy Jacobs
is the executive director of the CV Alliance located at  
3131 Foothill Blvd. Suite D
La Crescenta, CA 91214
(818) 646-7867  http://cv-alliance.org/

  Suzy JACOBS