Dear Dr. Laura, 

Many times as a parent, I feel like I have failed; like I am lost on a very long road. They have become so independent and need me much less. Sometimes, it's hard to guess what exactly is going on inside their minds. I make attempts to talk to them and engage them in conversation, however, the mind of a teenager seems to have different priorities. 

Every once in a while, however, I have been blessed to see the fruits of my labors, and know I have been traveling down the right road all along. Just today I was driving with my 15-year-old son in the car. He still seems like a little boy to me, but he towers above me at 6' 1". I was telling him how proud I was of him and the choices he continues to make in his life. He was quiet for a little while and then said to me, "I made a really good choice the other day, Mom." He went on to tell me at school he was approached by a girl he had only seen before and did not know by name. She said, "Hey, do you want to go do drugs after school?" He told her, "No, I don't do that stuff." After that, he didn't just walk away, he went to the principal's office and explained what had just happened. My heart swelled up with joy, and I knew not only was my son making good choices, but I am not a failure as a mom. 

I'm so grateful for the opportunity I've had to be a mom and for the things my kids teach me daily. Being a mom is one of the toughest jobs I've ever had; however, it has been the one that's given me the most fulfillment in my life. 

Thank you for your service you do on the air! It makes changes in people's lives. I am one of the starfish you have picked up and thrown back into the sea several times. 

Life is often like driving down a long road. Sometimes, we drive for miles and miles without seeing any signs that let us know we're heading in the right direction. But then, all of the sudden, we see the sign that confirms we are right where we need to be. To all of the mothers out there who wonder where exactly they are on that long road? Keep going forward. Eventually, you will come to the sign that says, "You're heading in the right direction". Seeing it, and knowing you're heading in the right direction, will be your reward! 

Sincerely, 

Rebecca