What We Can Learn from Justin Bieber

Justin Bieber has a special place in my heart because he took on the Philippines (my parents’ native land) as one of his charitable causes, raising over $3 million in the aftermath of Typhoon Haiyan. I am heartened that he used his influence to rally so many of his fans to assist when tragedy struck. Obviously the kid is no saint, as he was recently arrested for a DUI, drag racing, and drug possession.

We see this happen repeatedly: child stars with so much fame and power, spiraling out of control. It’s easy to shake our heads and criticize, but how many of us can truly understand what is going on. We’ve never been exposed to such wealth and celebrity.

Justin is a mere 19 years old. Let me tell you what I was doing when I was that age. I was fresh out of the dorms, living in a small 3-bedroom apartment with four other girls. Sure I was living away from my parents and on my own, and yes I consumed my fair share of alcohol underage. But I was also disciplined because unless I wanted to fail out of Biology and Organic Chemistry, I needed to be focused and I needed to study my ass off, if ever I wanted to live a life that didn’t consist of eating Top Ramen for dinner.

Contrast my life with Justin’s. He’s not wanting for anything. He’s achieved fame, fortune. He has nothing to strive for. We can dismiss his life as another celebrity gone wrong. It’s not something that can statistically happen to our normally raised kids. Yet how often do we see addictions manifesting in young adults, prevalent underage drinking and drug use, and teenage pregnancy?

Where is Justin’s mother? She seems to be praying, as she has called on the public to refrain from criticizing and join her in praying for her son. While I’m a firm believer in prayer, I also believe that God helps those who help themselves. Justin’s mom needs to be by her son’s side like a fly on shit. He’s become an immature spoiled brat, lacking guidance, and needs discipline. Children need and crave discipline!

Are you your child’s best friend? If so, that’s a RED FLAG. My husband is my best friend. My kid will never be my best friend. I am there to advise, guide, and discipline. That is a parent’s job. If ever you suspect your kid is going off the rails, heed my words: LIKE A FLY ON SHIT. You should know who their friends are, who their friends’ parents are, where they are at all times, what they like and dislike, what motivates them. Be a parent, not a friend.

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